WILLIAMS SUPPORTS ENVIRONMENTAL-FRIENDLY REBATE PROGRAM

 HARRISBURG, JULY 27 – Sen. Connie Williams today praised a state rebate program aimed at encouraging motorists to purchase environmentally-friendly hybrid electric vehicles.

“This $500 rebate program is not only beneficial to car buyers, but to the environment as well,” Williams said.

The state’s “Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebate Program provides $500 rebates to consumers who buy the new hybrid cars.

Apart from the rebate, Williams said hybrid electric vehicles can save consumers money by increasing fuel efficiency. Greater fuel efficiency also provides for lower emissions of air pollutants.

This is the second round of funding for the Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebate Program, which is offered through the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program administered through the Department of Environmental Protection.

Williams said that in less than 10 months, the program has issued $1.5 million in rebates.

To qualify for the $500 rebate, the hybrid electric vehicle must be registered in Pennsylvania and operate the vehicle primarily in the state. The rebates are offered on a first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available.

Rebates are provided only for the purchase of the cleanest and most fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles. “Full hybrid” vehicles that use complete hybrid technology to increase a vehicle’s power and performance rather than reduce emissions do not qualify for the rebates.

Rebate forms, along with additional information about the program, may be obtained at DEP’s Web site, www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword “Alternative Fuels,” or by calling Cleo Arp, Grant Officer at (717) 772-8912.