March 19, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — In Arkansas, the term “energy-efficiency” carries more and more meaning for us in our homes and our bank accounts with each passing day.
Because of the federal stimulus program, Arkansas has $2.7 million for families who replace home appliances with new, ENERGY STAR models. ENERGY STAR is an international rating system developed by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. It lets consumers identify products that conserve energy use and save money on utility bills.
Arkansas families can buy certified refrigerators, washing machines, and hot water heaters from more than 200 participating stores, then apply for a rebate from the State. Depending on your purchase, you can receive between $125 and $200 back.
Not only do you save money on the front end, but by installing appliances that use 10 to 50 percent less energy and water than non-energy-efficient machines, you also save money on your monthly bills. This is a practical way to keep money in your pocket while doing your part to care for our planet. Last year alone, with the help of ENERGY STAR®, Americans saved enough energy to power 10 million homes and avoid greenhouse gas emissions from 12 million cars – all while saving $6 billion on utility bills.
But you must act quickly. Rebate applications will be accepted and funds awarded only as long as the money is available, and given the response so far, that won’t be long. Since the Arkansas Energy Office announced the appliance rebate program on March 15th, more than 600 Arkansans have already bought new appliances and submitted their rebate requests.
We’re all seeking ways to cut costs in our lives. This program not only benefits Arkansas families who need to save their dollars for other things, but the sales help stimulate our State’s economy.
Remember that these savings are reserved for appliances that will be used in Arkansas homes, not businesses. The goal is to help families.
Here in the Governor’s Office, we will show our support for energy conservation by again participating in Earth Hour. On March 27, from 8:30-9:30 p.m., the State of Arkansas will turn off the lights at the State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion. As we flip the switch, so too will millions of people in cities and countries around the world. I encourage you to do the same; the measure will physically save energy while publicly demonstrating that we can all aspire to be good stewards of our planet.
Arkansas is already establishing itself as a manufacturing center for the wind-energy industry, and in the process we will see hundreds, maybe thousands, of new high-quality jobs. As a State, we continue to create these clean-energy jobs and increase our independence from foreign energy sources. As Arkansas citizens, we can take our own steps to save money at home while conserving our resources
Contact:
Little Rock, AR 72201 | 501-682-2345
