Rebates for recycling old refrigerators and for purchasing and installing a new home solar electric system are now available to residents from Silicon Valley Power, the City’s municipal Electric Utility.

Old refrigerators typically consume 15 percent of residential electrical usage, whereas ENERGY STAR®-qualified refrigerators use at least 40 percent less energy than conventional models sold as recently as 2001.  Residents can receive a $50 rebate for purchasing an ENERGY STAR-qualified refrigerator, and a $35 rebate for removing the older, working one and recycling it in conjunction with buying the more energy-efficient model.

Both the recycling and purchase of a new refrigerator must be completed by June 30, 2007.  Residents may recycle up to two units per household and must own the appliances, which have to be at least 14 cubic feet. 

Santa Clara residents also may receive a $3 per watt rebate, up to $9,000, for a home solar system on an existing house, not on new construction.   Installation must be completed by participating contractors or by residents.  To qualify, fill out an application postmarked no more than 30 days after purchase and prior to July 15, 2007.  Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For additional information about the recycling rebate, call (877) 577-0510 and for more details about solar, call 244-SAVE (7283) or visit this website.