Va. to apply for energy rebates

The U.S. Department of Energy is setting aside nearly $7.5 million for rebates to consumers who purchase energy-efficient appliances in Virginia.

The funding is part of $300 million allocated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to fund rebate programs in the states and U.S. territories.

Virginia must apply to participate in the program by Aug. 15, and intends to do so, said Gordon Hickey, press secretary for Gov. Timothy M. Kaine.

Rebates will apply to the purchase of certain Energy Star appliances, with an emphasis on heating and cooling systems, water heaters, clothes washers, dishwashers and refrigeration units, where upgrades can save the most electricity.

Program rules and the rebate amounts per appliance will be determined by the individual states, which will be allowed to use 10 percent to 25 percent of each award to administer the programs. The Department of Energy expects the majority of money will be awarded to the states by Nov. 30. -- Jim Nolan