City of Fort Lauderdale Announces Rebates Up to $1,000 Under the "Smart Watts" Energy Efficiency Rebate Program
City of Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Venice of America
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City of Fort Lauderdale Announces Rebates Up to $1,000 Under the "Smart Watts" Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Matt Little, Public Information Specialist
(954) 828-4732 or mlittle@fortlauderdale.gov

Fort Lauderdale - Residents may qualify for up to $1,000 in cash rebates for energy efficient improvements under a new City of Fort Lauderdale program aimed at improving energy efficiency, protecting the environment and lowering monthly energy bills.

Rebates will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis for the purchase and installation of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), solar or gas on-demand water heaters, solar panels, Energy Star windows or doors and insulation. The program provides a 50% match of up to $1,000.

The City plans to distribute $235,000 in federal grants.

"Smart Watts" Energy Efficiency Rebate Program Graphic

HOW IT WORKS

Residents submit a short application for program participation approval that includes an FPL Energy Survey Report, proof of owner occupancy, the type of improvement and a written estimate of the work. At the time of approval, the City will earmark the funds needed to issue the rebate check. Approved applicants have four months to complete the work and submit a request for their rebate check, along with proof of purchase and permit documentation.

If an applicant does not submit the rebate request within four months of approval, the unused funding will be reallocated to applications placed on a waiting list.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

  • Applicants must own and occupy the Fort Lauderdale property being improved.
  • Applicants must obtain a free FPL Energy Survey (available online) and submit a copy of the FPL Energy Report.
  • Home improvements must meet Energy Star qualifications and/or Florida Building Code, depending on the item selected.
  • Applicants or their contractors must obtain necessary permits.
  • Energy efficient systems must be installed by a certified FPL Participating Independent Contractor or licensed Florida installer.
  • Purchases and installations must occur after November 15, 2010.

The Smart Watts program is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program using funds allocated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. There is a limit of one rebate per household or small business.

For more information and an application package, visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/rebates or contact the 24-Hour Customer Service Center at 954-828-8000.