§15821 Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs

Summary

Gives federal money to state energy offices to run rebate programs that help homeowners replace old appliances with Energy Star or cold-climate efficient models. A state must create a rebate program, apply to the Secretary when and how the Secretary requires, and promise the federal money will add to state funds rather than replace them. Each year the Secretary divides the available money among eligible states based on population, with a minimum amount for each state. The federal share can pay up to 50 percent of a program’s costs. States decide rebate amounts by looking at their allocation, any federal or state tax incentives, and the price difference between the efficient product and a similar non‑efficient appliance. Congress authorized $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2010. Eligible State — a state that meets the program rules. Energy Star program — the federal Energy Star efficiency program. Residential Energy Star product — an Energy Star‑rated home appliance. State energy office — the state agency that handles energy plans. State program — the state’s appliance rebate program.