Fabulous news for folks who missed out on the Cash for Clunkers program: a new $300 million rebate program is being developed that will give back green to consumers buying green; green home appliances, that is.

 

The program — currently in planning stages but active at the end of this year or in early 2010 — will reward those buying EnergyStar appliances with rebates of $50 to $200 in government gravy. Not too shabby. And no, you don’t have to drag your old, inefficient fridge, stove, dishwasher, or AC unit into your local Best Buy to qualify for a rebate.

 

Even though the program is funded by federal stimulus money, it will be operated on a state-by-state basis with each state receiving different allotments. The Department of Energy is recommending that states focus the rebates programs on heating and cooling devices, appliances, and water heaters. The goal of the rebate program, like Cash for Clunkers, is to stimulate the economy and give Mother Nature a rest by taking energy-guzzling old appliances out of the equation and replacing them with more efficient ones.

 

Writes the Associated Press:

 

 

So if you’re considering buying yourself an, umm, new water heater for Christmas and want to save a few bucks, it’s your lucky day. And stay tuned … specific rebate plans from each participating state won’t be announced until mid-October. 

 

Via [New York Times]

 

 

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