Refrigerator recycling pilot program
A refrigerator recycling pilot program began in spring 2010 at four member cooperatives in the latest Hoosier Energy power network energy efficiency program. Designed to reduce the use of energy-wasting old refrigerators and freezers, the program is another way Hoosier Energy and members are helping consumers manage energy costs.
Clark County REMC, South Central Indiana REMC, Southeastern Indiana REMC, and Southern Indiana Power are participating. The co-ops offer incentives to consumers to recycle secondary refrigerator or freezer units that are functional and in use. Homeowners can to schedule pickups of these appliances at no charge.
“In addition to the convenience of having their refrigerator hauled off and collecting an incentive, participants could potentially save up to $150 per year on their electric bills,” says Energy Efficiency Coordinator Erik Miller. “The program has many benefits,” he added, “some of which go beyond the participant. For instance, recycling refrigerators keeps caustic pollutants from entering our environment.”
Program partner JACO Environmental picks up the refrigerator from the owner’s home, cuts the power cord and marks the unit so that it does not reenter the market, and makes sure that it is properly recycled. The pilot program aims to help member cooperatives control energy demand by collecting up to 425 secondary refrigerator and freezer units.
Refrigerator facts
- The average refrigerator sold today uses less energy than a 60-watt light bulb left on for 24 hours.
- Every year refrigerator efficiency improves. An average fridge purchased in 2008 consumes 3 percent less energy than one from 2007.
- Forty-four percent of fridges that could be recycled are used as second fridges, sold or given away.
- Only three out of 10 refrigerators sold are Energy Star-qualified.
- Twenty-seven million inefficient models made before 1993 are still in American homes.
- Thirty-two percent of Hoosier Energy member co-op members own two or more refrigerators – based on a 2008 survey.
SOURCES: Hoosier Energy, Energy Star, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers