New Texas Appliance Rebate Program Underway

AUSTIN (AP) - Advance reservations are not required for the latest energy-efficient appliance rebate program in Texas offering more than $18 million in federal stimulus funds.

The program that began Monday involves a traditional mail-in rebate system for residential customers.

The state comptroller's office, which is administering the program, says about $10 million in unclaimed rebate funds from April's first program are available, plus $8.5 million from unused public sector energy efficiency funds.

Problems arose during the first rebate program when the online reservation systems and phone lines were swamped.

Rebate-eligible appliances are air-source heat pumps, central air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, room air conditioners and water heaters.

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