§15821 Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs

Summary

Gives money to states so they can give rebates to people who buy energy-efficient home appliances. A state can get money if it creates a rebate program that replaces old appliances with Energy Star or cold-climate efficient models, applies to the Secretary with required information, and promises the federal money will add to, not replace, its own funds. Each year the Secretary divides the available money among eligible states based on each state’s share of the total population of eligible states, with an adjustment so no state gets less than a minimum the Secretary sets. The grant can pay up to 50 percent of a state program’s costs. States decide rebate amounts by looking at the grant, any tax incentives, and the price difference between efficient and standard appliances. Congress authorized $50,000,000 each year for fiscal years 2006 through 2010. Definitions — eligible State: a state that meets the rules; Energy Star program: the federal energy-efficiency labeling program; residential Energy Star product: a home product rated under Energy Star; State energy office: the state agency that handles energy plans; State program: the state’s appliance rebate program.