Congresswoman Chellie Pingree encourages Mainers to take advantage of appliance rebates

Federal stimulus to help support energy efficiency program launched in Maine October 1
 
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree is encouraging Maine citizens to take advantage of a program that offers cash rebates for purchasing energy-efficient Energy Star appliances.  Administered by the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the program was launched in Maine on October 1 and will be supported by stimulus funds.“This is an important part of the Stimulus Act because it will help people save on appliance costs in the short term and electric bills in long term,” said Pingree.  “It will also stimulate the local economy and bring business to local appliance dealers and contractors.”
 
In Maine, the rebates cover Energy Star refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioners.

Consumers can get:

·     $50 for washing machines
·     $75 for refrigerator/freezers over 7.5 cubic feet
·     $25 for refrigerator/freezers 7.5 cubic feet and less
·     $25 for air conditioners and dehumidifiers
 
Unlike the “cash for clunkers” program, consumers do not need to trade in an old appliance to be eligible.  To receive the rebate, consumers obtain a mail-in form from retailers and send it to the State with a copy of the receipt.
 
Pingree set up an information page on her website at www.pingree.house.gov. 
 
The rebate program in Maine has been kicked off with funds from the proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, but over $1.2 million in stimulus funding has been planned for the program and is expected to come in over the next few months.  The Maine PUC expects the rebates to be available for about a year and a half.
 
The Stimulus Act was passed by Congress and signed by the President earlier this year.