DELEG Increases Appliance Rebate Amounts

in the Michigan Appliance Trade Up Program

Increases rebates for newly purchased energy efficient appliances

Press Release from Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth

June 9, 2010 - The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG) is now offering increased rebate amounts on some eligible appliances through the Michigan Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program (MEEARP). MEEARP - also known as the Michigan Appliance Trade Up program - offers financial incentives for consumers to update their appliances with new models that exceed ENERGY STAR standards.

MEEARP was created to spur economic growth, save energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging Michigan residents to replace older appliances through consumer rebates. The program, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) is designed to push the market for energy efficient products by providing rebates for appliances that exceed the ENERGY STAR standards, and are not covered by existing utility-run programs.

"Larger rebates will encourage even more Michigan homeowners to purchase highly efficient furnaces and water heaters, saving energy and reducing their utility bills," said DELEG Director and Chief Energy Officer Stanley "Skip" Pruss. "The rebates also will spur job creation and economic growth in the new energy economy, and help Michigan reduce our reliance on fossil fuels."

Products included in the program are CEE Tier 3 clothes washers and refrigerators, CEE Tier 2 dishwashers, and Energy Star refrigerators, oil furnaces, propane furnaces (AFUE 95%), propane water heaters (storage EF>.67, tankless EF>.82), and solar water heaters.

MEEARP increased the rebate amounts for the following appliances:
•    Propane Furnaces-increased to $500, original amount $300
•    Propane Water Heaters-increased to $300, original amount $100
•    Oil Furnaces-increased to $500, original amount $300
•    Solar Water Heaters-increased to 25%, up to $2,500; original amount 20%, up to $1,200

Michigan residents who have already participated in the furnace and water heater rebate program will receive an additional check with the difference between the two amounts.

Only Michigan residents are eligible to participate in the appliance rebate program, and must be replacing an old appliance to qualify. Residential customers must self-certify the proper disposal of the old product. While recycling is not required, it is strongly encouraged.

The program is not retroactive, and products purchased before the February 10, 2010 start date are not eligible for the program. If you've purchased an energy efficient product before the eligible start date please go to www.dsireusa.org for a comprehensive list of energy efficiency rebates and incentives for the State of Michigan.

For more information on the Michigan Appliance Trade Up Program go to www.MIrebates.com (refrigerators, clothes washers, and dishwashers) or www.michrebate.com (furnaces & water heaters). Customers without internet access can call 1-866-621-8782 (refrigerators, clothes washers, & dishwashers) or 1-888-642-4674 (furnaces & water heaters). Michigan retailers are encouraged to contact the toll free helpline at 1-866-949-6425.