For immediate release 6-18-09

For information contact:

(781) 245-7070

WMGLD expands and enhances residential rebate program

(Wakefield, MA) – The Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department (WMGLD) is enhancing and expanding its successful energy saving appliance and thermostat rebate program on July 1^st.

According to WMGLD rebate program coordinator Janet Eno, the program will be expanded to include Energy Star-rated central air conditioning systems and dehumidifiers. In addition, the rebate amount for programmable thermostats will be increased from $20 to $25 per thermostat (limit of 2 per customer), and customers will have their rebates applied directly to their accounts.

More than 1,600 rebates, representing over $189,000, have been given to WMGLD residential customers through the program since it was introduced in 2002.

The WMGLD appliance rebate program includes a $100 rebate for the purchase of a qualified water heater with an energy factor of .61 or more, or for the purchase of an Energy Star central air conditioning system with a SEER rating of 13 or more. Customers may be eligible to receive a $50 rebate for the purchase of an Energy Star air conditioner, refrigerator, washing machine or dishwasher.

There is a limit of one (1) rebate per WMGLD customer account per calendar year; customers can purchase up to two (2) thermostats. Once the budget has been expended, the program will end for the year.

To be eligible to receive a rebate, customers must provide copies of the sales receipt and the Energy Star label, along with their application. The appliance must be installed at the account location, and the WMGLD has the right to visit the location for verification. All appropriate materials must be submitted before a rebate will be given to the customer. There will be no exceptions.

A home energy audit is not required to take advantage of the rebate program.

“The rebate program is a great way to use energy more efficiently, save money on utility bills, and reduce your carbon footprint,” WMGLD General Manager Pete Dion said. “We encourage all residential customers to participate in this program if they are in the market for a more energy efficient appliance. Energy Star appliances may be slightly more expensive to purchase, but they save customers money throughout the life of the appliance.”

The WMGLD also has an Incentive Rebate Program that can save customers 25%, or up to $300, of the cost of eligible energy improvements in their home. An energy audit is required for this portion of the program and audits must be done before any work begins.

For additional information about the residential rebate or incentive programs, call the WMGLD at 781-246-6363 or visit the website at www.wmgld.com.