American Samoa will offer instant rebate program this spring designed to help residents replace older, inefficient appliances with new Energy Star-qualified appliances.

The program is one of 56 Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs, popularly known as Cash for Appliances, that are being set up in the United States and six U.S. territories with the help of federal stimulus money.

American Samoa will receive $100,000 of the nearly $300 million available nationwide from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Territory residents who buy one of the following Energy Star appliances will be eligible for the rebate:

• Refrigerators
• Freezers
• Clothes washers
• Room air conditioners
• Central air conditioners

The program is scheduled to begin April 23. Residents must apply in-person for rebate vouchers at the American Samoa Territorial Energy Office before making a purchase. The program will end when funds are depleted.

Residents are encouraged to recycle their old appliances, but aren't required to provide proof.

For more information, visit the American Samoa Territorial Energy Office Web site or call 684-699-1102.