Iowa launching new energy efficient appliance program

Iowans interested in getting their share of $2.7 million state energy efficient appliance rebates may want to act fast after the new program begins on March 1.

The Iowa Office of Energy Independence said the program will be open to Iowa residential customers only, with rebate dollars offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Rebate amounts vary by the appliance, and are listed on the office's web site. They range from $500 for a 18-cubic-foot-plus refrigerator that is at least 30 percent more efficient than the federal standard, to $100 on a wind air conditioner that is 10 percent more efficient than the federal standard.

A specific number of rebates are targeted for each appliance category. Three thousand rebates are planned in the largest single category. refrigerators with 18 or more cubic feet capacity.

Only 81 rebates are targeted to the smallest category, propane gas furnaces with energy efficiency ratings of 91.5 percent to 93 percent.

Purchases must be made on or after March 1 from the list of approved appliance categories, which also include water heaters and dishwashers.

“We anticipate that each Iowan who participates in this program will be able to save hundreds of dollars over the life of their new and more efficient appliance,” Office of Energy Independence Director Roya Stanley said.

The Iowa Office of Energy Independence will begin educating retailers about how the program will work on Friday, when it offers an informational webinar.

For more on the program, including the list of approved appliances eligible for rebates and a list of frequently asked questions, go to

http://www.state.ia.us/government/governor/energy/