House Republican Press Release

September 4, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

HETHERINGTON ADVISES RESIDENTS TO CONSIDER FURNACE REBATE PROGRAM

State Representative John Hetherington (R-125) is advising New Canaan and Wilton residents to consider the state’s new furnace rebate program.

“Anyone who is upgrading a heating system should look into this,’ Hetherington said. He explained that the State Bond Commission recently authorized $5 million for a program to provide rebates of up to $500 for homeowners who replace their furnaces with more efficient models.  The furnace rebate program applies to homes and apartment buildings with four units or less. Replacement furnaces fueled by natural gas must be Energy Star-rated, while oil and propane equipment must be at least 84 percent efficient. he amount of the rebates varies depending on the income of the homeowner. “In some cases,” Hetherington noted, “Work can qualify going back to July 1, 2007.”

The furnace rebate hotline is 1-866-940-4676.  Residents who leave their name, mailing address and phone number will be mailed program application materials.

The rebate program, which will be administered by the Office of Policy and Management, is authorized under energy legislation voted into law in 2007. The application is also available on the Office of Policy and Management website: http://www.ct.gov/opm .