House Republican Press Release

August 12, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. HOVEY: STATE FURNACE PROGRAM RECEIVES FUNDING

HARTFORD - State Rep. DebraLee Hovey (R-Monroe, Newtown) today announced state has funded a program to help state residents purchase energy efficient furnaces. On Monday, August 4, the State Bond Commission approved a $7 million allocation for the program.

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. The amount of the rebates varies depending on the income of the homeowner.

The program was created in 2007 as a way to help state residents conserve oil and save on heating expenses.  It will provide rebates of up to $500 to households that purchase and install replacement natural gas, propane or oil furnaces and boilers between July 1, 2007 and July 1, 2017.

“The upcoming winter will likely be costly for homeowners, especially those with inefficient furnaces,” said Rep. Hovey. “This program is one I hope local residents will look into, as it can really help offset the cost of replacing those units.”

The program will be administered by the state Office of Policy and Management (OPM). Residents can call 1-866-940-4676 for more information and to apply for the rebate. They can also learn more about it by visiting: www.ct.gov/opm