Washington, DC - Tuesday, the New Mexico Congressional delegation announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has made $1,903,927.00 available for energy efficiency rebates for purchases of new ENERGY STAR qualified home appliances. The funding was made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
"This appliance rebate initiative was written into law in 2005, but the Recovery Act is the first opportunity we've had to fund it. By helping New Mexicans purchase energy-saving appliances, we will be stimulating the economy while reducing our nation's energy consumption," Senator Jeff Bingaman said. Bingaman, who chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, worked hard to incorporate the appliance rebate into the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and helped ensure it was funded through the Recovery Act."
"This $1.9 million in Recovery funding will help New Mexican families save money on their monthly electric bill and give them a rebate incentive to purchase energy efficient appliances that are good for our environment," said Senator Tom Udall.
"These rebates will provide double savings to New Mexicans, both on the cost of the appliance and on their energy bills for the life of the appliance," said Congressman Harry Teague. "Heating and cooling our homes can account for as much as 46% of utility bills so savings on the purchase of energy efficient appliances continues beyond checkout."
"Efficient home appliances save energy and money," said Congressman Martin Heinrich. "This program encourages smart home improvement by offsetting the cost of replacing old appliances with more efficient models. New Mexicans will save energy, lower utility bills, and stimulate the economy."
"This program through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will make it easier for families to get energy saving appliances in their homes," said Congressman Ben Ray Luján. "The program and these appliances will help save families money during these difficult economic times, while saving electricity."
The new funding will be awarded to the state using a formula set forth in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.
10 percent of the funds will be awarded after submitting an initial application with the balance awarded after their program plans are approved. DOE anticipates that substantially all funding will be awarded by November 30, 2009.
Types of Appliances that can qualify for rebates:
· Boilers
· Central air conditioners
· Clothes washers
· Dishwashers
· Freezers
· Furnaces (oil and gas)
· Heat pumps (air source and geothermal)
· Refrigerators
· Room air conditioners
· Water heaters
Visit the Energy Star Website for more information about the program.
