Federal funds encourage swaps to save energy and the environment.

The City of Santa Clarita is informing residents about the State’s new “Cash for Clunkers” program, this time for appliances. The California Department of Energy received $35.2 million in appropriated federal stimulus package funding to assist California residents in swapping out old, energy inefficient home appliances for new, Energy Star qualified ones.

Home appliance categories eligible for Energy Star rebates include central and room air conditioners, air source and geothermal heat pumps, boilers, oil and gas furnaces, washing machines, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, and water heaters.

“The “Cash for Clunkers Program for Appliances” is a great way to swap out antiquated, energy inefficient home appliances for new Energy Star-rated ones that will help lower monthly utility costs and protect the environment,” said Mayor Frank Ferry. “The program assists local residents in purchasing new, energy efficient appliances that will benefit the environment while stimulating the economy.”

Additional information on the new program, set to go into effect later this year, is available at www.energy.ca.gov/recovery/energystar.html.

Residents can also log on to greensantaclarita.com, to stay up-to-date on the program’s development and implementation and get information on all things “green” in Santa Clarita. The site features current and comprehensive environmental information specifically targeted for local residents, businesses, builders and more.

For more information on the “Cash for Clunkers Program for Appliances” and how it will affect Santa Clarita, visit greensantaclarita.com.