Getting rid of an old refrigerator is one of the best ways to reduce electricity use. The fridge is one of the biggest power hogs in the home, and older models can use up to twice as much electricity as new ones. Electric companies will sometimes give rebates to customers for retiring older models. In Massachusetts, NStar offers a $150 rebate to any customer who replaces a fridge that is at least 12 years old with a new one. But, as you’d imagine, NStar tries to keep this rebate as quiet as possible—it’s not mentioned anywhere on their website. The only way most people hear about this rebate is through word-of-mouth or during an energy audit on their home. Be sure to investigate all potential rebates when replacing your old appliances. Get the appliance rebate first and then the savings on electricity. For a comprehensive list of incentives, check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiencies (DSIRE) where you can search by state to get links for more information.

DSIRE