Focus on Energy Urges Residents to Recycle Inefficient Appliances for Energy Awareness Month

MADISON, Wis., Oct. 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In honor of National Energy Awareness Month, Focus on Energy, Wisconsin utilities' statewide program for energy efficiency and renewable energy, is urging residents to recycle old, inefficient refrigerators and freezers.

Through its Appliance Recycling Program, Focus on Energy offers customers of participating electric utilities a $30 cash-back reward and free pick-up and disposal of their old refrigerator or freezer, which can consume up to three times as much energy and cost up to $150 more per year in electrical costs than newer, more efficient models.

"Energy Awareness Month is a reminder of how important it is to be good stewards of our energy and environment," said William S. Haas, director of program administration. "Focus on Energy's Appliance Recycling Program gives Wisconsin residents the opportunity to make a real difference in energy conservation by unplugging and responsibly recycling their outdated appliances."  

Recycling an outdated refrigerator through Focus on Energy allows for the repurposing of more than 188 pounds of materials such as foam, glass, and metal. In addition, recycling an old appliance has approximately the same environmental benefit as removing two cars from the road for one year. 

Eligible customers can schedule a free pickup by calling 1-855-398-5226 or visiting focusonenergy.com/appliance. Refrigerators and freezers must be in working order, clean and empty, with an inside measurement between 10 and 30 cubic feet — standard size for most units. In addition, there must be a clear path for removal. A maximum of two units per household per calendar year will be accepted.

About Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Focus on Energy information, resources, and financial incentives help to implement projects that otherwise would not be completed, or to complete projects sooner than scheduled. Its efforts help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect our environment, and control the state's growing demand for electricity and natural gas. For more information, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Catalina Lamadrid, CEM, LEED, AP, GHG IQ 
Director of Communications & Marketing 
608-230-7006
[email protected] 

SOURCE Focus on Energy