The Oregon Department of Energy will provide eligible low-income Oregon households with instant rebates for energy-efficient heating systems starting Dec. 15 through the State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program.

The program, which is part of a federal program popularly known as Cash for Appliances, will provide rebates of 70 percent (up to $2,000). The department is also partnering with the Oregon Department of Housing and Community Services to provide an additional assistance benefit.

The program will replace and recycle approximately 1,800 non-functioning or low-efficiency furnaces and heat pumps across the state for households earning less than 60 percent of the state's median income levels, which are as follows:

• 1 person - $20,228
• 2 persons - $26,451
• 3 persons - $32,675
• 4 persons - $38,899
• 5 persons - $45,123
• 6 persons - $51,347

For income guidelines for larger families, check out the program's fact sheet (PDF format). Oregonians who believe they are eligible should contact their local Community Action Program.

CAP agency representatives will inspect and determine if heating systems need replacement, decide the type of heating system to be installed and arrange for a CAP-certified contractor to install the system. The Oregon Department of Energy will pay the CAP agency directly for 70 percent of the equipment up to a cost of $2,000 and the CAP agency will cover the remaining costs, including installation. The homeowner will be asked to sign a release for the funds, but will not need to pay for either the equipment or installation.

The state of Oregon will receive $3.6 million of the nearly $300 million available nationwide from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Oregon decided to target heating systems for low-income households because the state already has a Residential Energy Tax Credit incentive program for all Oregonians who purchase refrigerators and other high-efficiency appliances.

For more information on the program, visit the Oregon Department of Energy Web site or call 503-378-4040 or 800-221-8035.