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Rebates rise for Sandy victims replacing appliances

Written by David P. Willis
@dpwillis732

Residents who need to replace a furnace or water heater flooded as a result of superstorm Sandy will get a little more help from the state if they buy a high energy-efficiency model.

The state Board of Public Utilities has hiked rebates to replace storm-damaged equipment and appliances, such as furnaces, boilers and water heaters, by $200, from their levels of $300 to $400. The new incentives and changes to New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program are retroactive to Oct. 29, the day Sandy hit.

“As New Jersey rebuilds, we want to ensure that everyone is aware of the advantages of purchasing energy-efficient products,” said Bob Hanna, president of the BPU, in a statement.

The extended rebates for Sandy recovery also covers central air conditioners. Clothes washers have a $50 rebate for Sandy victims, the state said.

More information on the rebates is available online at www.njcleanenergy.com,

The state also has increased rebates for commercial, industrial and local government that have or will need to purchase new equipment, as well as adding new incentives for qualifying food service equipment. That includes commercial dishwashers, fryers, griddles, ovens and refrigerators.

The improved rebates are available until about $45.5 million in Clean Energy Program money is exhausted. Since some rebuilding may not occur until later this year, more money may be approved by the BPU later.

Meanwhile, New Jersey Natural Gas said regulators have allowed the utility to extended its own rebates and financial incentives for customers who upgrade to a high-efficency furnace. For Sandy victims, it would tack on a $900 rebate from the gas company on qualified units.