§15821 Energy efficient appliance rebate programs

Summary

The federal government pays states to run rebate programs that help people buy energy‑efficient home appliances. To get a share, a state must set up a rebate program that replaces old appliances with Energy Star or cold‑climate efficient models, apply to the Secretary, and promise the federal money will add to, not replace, its own funds. Each year the yearly pot is divided among eligible states by population. The Secretary can adjust amounts so no state gets below a set minimum. States can use the money for up to 50% of program costs. States decide rebate amounts, but must consider their allocation, any tax incentives, and the price gap between efficient and similar standard appliances. Eligible State: a state that meets the rules above. Energy Star program: the federal energy‑rating program. Residential Energy Star product: a home product rated by Energy Star. State energy office: the state agency that handles energy plans. State program: the state's rebate program. Congress authorized $50,000,000 for each fiscal year 2006 through 2010.