FARMINGTON, Minn. (March 16, 2009) — As many people face tighter budgets, Dakota Electric Association reminds its members that the cooperative offers programs to reduce electric use and save money, and the recently passed stimulus plan offers significant tax credits for several energy-efficiency improvements.
Dakota Electric’s money-saving programs include lighting and appliance rebates, energy reviews, energy-efficiency loans and more. Members can receive up to $2-per-bulb rebates for purchasing ENERGY STAR® compact fluorescent lights (CFL). CFLs can greatly reduce energy consumption since they use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent lights.
Dakota Electric offers members up to $330 in rebates for qualified air conditioner or air-source heat pump installations. Qualified residential ground-source heat pumps receive a $400-per-ton rebate. Besides one-time rebates, members receive a reduced electric rate all year long with an air conditioner or heat pump on Dakota Electric’s off-peak rate. Also, check with your tax advisor because these energy-efficient installations may qualify for generous tax credits. Other rebates are available on the purchase of ENERGY STAR refrigerators, clothes washers, freezers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers and room air conditioners. Members should contact Dakota Electric to learn about program rules before beginning any project.
“Dakota Electric has staff available to help our members save money and occasionally runs promotions that increase standard rebate amounts,” Michael Hoy, energy and member services manager, said. “We can discuss the money-saving options available, so our members can make informed choices on ways to lower their energy bills.”
Members are encouraged to call the Energy Experts® at 651-463-6243 or go to www.dakotaelectric.com to learn about money-saving options for their homes or businesses.
