N.J. residents replacing storm-ruined appliances may qualify for rebate

As part of the effort to help with the recovery from Hurricane Sandy, New Jersey is offering increased rebates to replace storm-damaged equipment and appliances.

Additional rebates, at an average of $200, are being offered to those who replace damaged furnaces, water heaters, and other equipment with energy-efficient models, said Joseph Fiordaliso, Board of Pubic Utilities commissioner.

“So it’s really a win-win situation,” he said. “Helping people get back on their feet and getting units that are going to use less energy.”

Businesses can also get those rebates for replacing damaged ovens, ice machines, freezers, and other equipment with high-efficiency units.

Applicants must be located within ZIP codes designated as storm-damaged areas and complete an affidavit that the losses occurred because of Sandy.

More than $45 million for the rebates is available in the state’s Clean Energy Program.

“That’s available between now and the end of June which is the end of our energy year, and my hope as an individual commissioner is that we would have additional money available after July 1,” Fiordaliso said.

The incentives are retroactive to Oct. 29 so they apply to those who have already bought replacement items.

More information about the rebate program is available online or by calling 866-NJSMART.