Last year, many taxpayers took advantage of the Cash for Clunkers program which encouraged trade in of gas guzzlers for a new fuel-efficient vehicle. In a similar effort, also part part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Georgians can now earn rebates from $25 to $199 for the purchase of new energy efficient appliances. Georgia is one of the first states to roll out this program which will continue until the money runs out. Nationwide, $300 million is available for this program which is allocated to each state based on population. Georgia was allotted about $8.6 million to go toward this program.
Following is a summary of what appliances are eligible for the rebate and how much the corresponding rebate would be:
- $30 for a qualifying room air conditioner
- $50 for a refrigerator
- $50-$99 for a washer, dishwasher or gas storage water heater, depending on the unit’s efficiency
- $99 for a gas condensing water heater, central air conditioner or oil furnace
- $199 for an electric heat pump water heater, gas tank-less water heater, solar water heater, air source heat pump, gas furnace, oil burner or gas boiler
Consumers can get only one rebate per appliance category, per household. The maximum rebate total per household is $1,200.
To apply for the rebate, go to www.GeorgiaRebate.com or call 866-296-1633. Many appliance retailers will also have information regarding the program and may be able to assist with the application.