A few months ago, we carried a post introducing the program. In another attempt to jump start the economy (after the stimulus bill and the original cash for clunkers), the government’s newest program begins today in Colorado. Several states have already instituted the program. Rebates are available when trading in older, less efficient models for Energy Star (rated) appliances.
Although the RechargeColorado.com website has been a bit overwhelmed this morning (it didn’t load properly when I tried to access it earlier), it should be back online when traffic slows down. On a positive note, this anecdote suggests that interest in the program is high. With the economic recovery taking shape, perhaps more consumers can now afford to spend a few extra dollars on devices that will save them money through reduced energy bills in the long run.
One concern remains. What happens to the devices that are being traded in or disposed of as a result of the program? Some landfills (like the Denver Arapahoe Disposal Site) offer refrigerator recycling. Also check out Earth 911′s directory. If the appliance being turned in has a few years remaining, perhaps donating it to a soup kitchen, local shelter, or other cause would allow it to serve a few more years before being broken down into usable parts.
[Image source: RechargeColorado.com]
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