Staten Island stores gearing up for another appliance rebate drive

From the Staten Island Advance:

http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/09/staten_island_stores_gearing_u.html

Approximately 145,000 New Yorkers traded in their energy-hogging refrigerators, dishwashers, clothing washers and freezers for more efficient models during the first go-around in February -- but because 25,000 never claimed their rebate, $4.8 million is back up for grabs.

The $4.8 million that went unclaimed was part of $16.8 million in funds made available to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority from the economic stimulus act. The program's second wave will run until the funds are exhausted.

Rebates, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, include $50 for a freezer and $75 for refrigerators and clothes washers. A $500 rebate for dishwashers is available when purchased as part of a three appliance bundle.

Shoppers will have 14 days from the time they reserve their rebate to submit the proper paperwork -- 25,000 from the first swap out failed to do the same.

To lure in shoppers, some retailers have extended their hours.

Sears stores, including the one at the Staten Island Mall in New Springville, opened at 7 a.m. today and will do so tomorrow. Additional staff will be on hand to help customers and discounts will also be offered on select appliances.

Last September, the U.S. Department of Energy made $300 million available from the economic stimulus act for state-run rebate programs -- dubbed "Cash for Appliances" or "Dollars for Dishwashers" -- for consumer purchases of Energy Star appliances.

It was a way to provide a cash infusion to the home appliance industry, much the way Cash for Clunkers jump-started car sales.