Blog / Georgia State Energy Efficiency Appliance Rebate Program

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds were given to each state to set up and administer an appliance rebate program. Georgia residents have $8,642,490 in rebate funds available that will be awarded on a first-come-first-serve basis. This rebate program is being launched on February 12, 2010 for any Georgia resident who replaces an existing appliance with a new Energy Star qualified appliance. Any purchase made after February 12, 2010 is eligible for this rebate. (Approved applicants will receive a Visa® Prepaid Card via mail).

This program was designed to stimulate the economy and help protect Georgia’s natural resources, while encouraging consumers to replace old appliances with new ENERGY STAR qualified models. By buying energy efficient appliances you’ll save money by reducing energy usage and put money back in your own pocket with lower utility bills (and rebate money)!

Below are some Questions and Answers to help you understand this program.

• When does the program start and end? The program begins on February 12, 2010 and ends the instant funds run out. Participants are encouraged to act quickly.
   
• Who is eligible? Only Georgia residents with valid Georgia residential addresses who replace existing appliances with new eligible ENERGY STAR qualified appliances and follow the program’s requirements. Rebates will be mailed to the residential address.
   
• How do I know if a product is ENERGY STAR qualified? All appliances that have earned this certification feature the familiar ENERGY STAR logo on the front of the product and on the product packaging. If you are unsure go to ENERGYSTAR.gov for a complete list of ENERGY STAR products and models.
   
• Can I receive a rebate for more than one appliance? Residents may apply for one rebate per category per address, up to $1,200 total per address. For example, one refrigerator rebate plus one dishwasher rebate would qualify. Applications for two dishwasher rebates would not qualify. Applying for a rebate on more than one appliance will require separate applications completed for each product purchased.
   
• Can I apply for the Georgia ENERGY STAR rebate and a manufacturer’s or retailer’s rebate on the same appliance? Yes, but keep in mind that each rebate sponsor has unique rules and application instructions. All mailed ENERGY STAR rebate application materials become Georgia’s property and will not be returned. Because original receipts may be required for other promotions, copies are accepted for this program.
   
• What products qualify? Go to www.GeorgiaRebate.com for details.
   
• Is appliance recycling required to qualify? Yes, participants must agree to replace and recycle existing appliances with a new ENERGY STAR qualified model. Arrangements can be made through retailers at the time of purchase.
   
• How will applications be verified? Every rebate application will be audited to verify the qualifying purchase and other requirements.
   
• How do I apply for the rebate? (1) Check for fund availability at www.GeorgiaRebate.com or call 1-866-296-1633. The rebate funds remaining are updated automatically as applications are received. (2) Buy a new ENERGY STAR qualified appliance to replace an existing appliance. Residents are encouraged to buy from Georgia retailers, but it is not a requirement. Online purchases do not qualify – only appliances purchased at physical retail locations will qualify for the rebate. Purchases made before February 12, 2010 are not eligible for the rebate. (3) Arrange to remove and recycle the replaced appliance. Retailers can provide assistance with recycling options. (4) Apply for rebate online at www.GeorgiaRebate.com or by calling 1-866-296-1633. You will need the receipt from your appliance purchase to complete the application. Print the application confirmation page and mail it with the sales receipt within 30 days of your online application. Phone applicants will receive the application confirmation page by mail and then mail it with the sales receipt within 30 days of the phoned application.

(Adapted from the Georgia State Energy Efficiency Appliance Rebate Program, ©2010)