PALMDALE -- Southern California Edison is increasing its rebates for residential customers who dispose of old freezers, install more efficient air-conditioning systems and take other steps to reduce energy use.
SCE will pay $50 for old working freezers, up from $35, and $625 if people install a qualified energy-efficient central air conditioner, up from $425, according to the company.
Rebates on whole house fans have increased to $150 from $100, and customers can still get $35 for turning in an old working refrigerator.
SCE also offers a $50 rebate for the purchase of a new Energy Star-rated refrigerator, so customers can receive up to $85 for turning in their old, working refrigerator and installing a new Energy Star-rated model. Rebates of up to $300 are available for installing an energy-efficient pool pump and motor.
"Older, less efficient appliances use far more energy than newer, Energy Star-rated appliances," said John Nall, manager of SCE's residential energy efficiency programs.
When customers turn in an old refrigerator or freezer, SCE will haul it away for free, he said.
Also, customers who reduce their energy use by 20 percent this summer (compared to last summer) will receive a 20-percent credit on their first winter bill as part of SCE's 20/20 Summer Savings Program.
To help reduce consumption, SCE has an Online Home Energy Survey, which provides customers with suggestions for lowering energy usage.
Rebates and incentives are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 800-736-4777 or visit www.sce.com and click on "Rebates & Savings."
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