Governor David A. Paterson today announced that New York has submitted a plan for federal approval that would provide consumers with rebates for purchasing certain energy-efficient refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers and dishwashers through a program funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). If New York’s plan is approved by federal government, the Great Appliance Swap Out program will allow the State to issue nearly 170,000 rebates totaling $16.8 million.

Under the proposed plan, which is scheduled to be offered during President’s Week in February, 2010, rebates for high-efficiency appliances will range from $50-$105 for a single unit and up to $555 for the purchase of a three appliance package. The plan must be approved by the Federal Department of Energy (DOE), which is expected to take at least 30 days. In addition, the program encourages recycling by offering a larger rebate to consumers who recycle their discarded appliances.

“New York must continue to build a clean energy economy that will cut our energy costs and reduce our greenhouse gas pollution. This program will provide an important boost to the economy, while encouraging consumers all across New York to buy appliances that reduce energy consumption,” Governor Paterson said. “We thank President Obama and our entire Congressional Delegation for working to make this critical stimulus funding available. Without this federal funding, which will provide much-needed economic stimulus in New York, we would not have pursued this program. We look forward to receiving DOE approval and moving forward in offering these cost- and energy-saving benefits to New Yorkers.”

Under the proposed plan, consumers could receive rebates for purchasing eligible appliances individually or in a bundle. Appliances will qualify only if they have earned the ENERGY STAR® label, meaning that they are up to 30 percent more efficient than standard models on the market. Consumers may receive a larger rebate by purchasing three eligible appliances that meet standards issued by the Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE) that are higher than ENERGY STAR standards.

Under the proposed plan, customers purchasing appliances would qualify for a rebate of $75 ($105 with documented recycling) for refrigerators, $75 ($100 with documented recycling) for clothes washers and $50 ($75 with documented recycling) for freezers. Rebates are available for dishwashers when they are purchased as part of a three appliance package, which may qualify for a $500 rebate ($550 with documented recycling).

Rebate instructions and forms will be available at www.GetEnergySmart.org, through NYSERDA’s hotline (1-877-NY-SMART), or from a participating retailer. The application and proper documentation must be mailed for processing within 30 days of purchase and applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis until funds are expended. Once the application is verified as complete, it will be processed and payment will be issued.

NYSERDA offers homeowners information on how to reduce their energy costs through its “Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®” program which offers strategies for encouraging comprehensive home energy improvements for existing homes. This program has helped more than 27,000 New Yorkers significantly cut their energy usage.

Additional information, including guidelines for the appliance rebate program and other programs to help homeowners reduce energy costs, can be found on NYSERDA’s web site at www.GetEnergySmart.org or from NYSERDA’s consumer hotline at: 877-NY-SMART.

(Moshe Altusky – NYC)