When the rural electric cooperatives in Iowa partnered with Environmental Services of Iowa, LLC, for curbside appliance recycling in 2010, no one knew what to expect. The resulting Pull the Plug program rewards REC members by providing instant rebates to pull the plug on old high-energy-use appliances and makes sure the appliances are disposed of properly. Three years later, the results speak for themselves.
In 2013, preliminary numbers show that CIPCO electric cooperative members across the state recycled 1,243 high-energy-use air conditioners, freezers, and refrigerators. Totals for ECI REC members in 2013 were impressive. Using ENERGY STAR® savings estimates, our members saved over $13,300 in electric costs by recycling 27 window air conditioners, 82 freezers, and 33 refrigerators.
As the program continues into its fourth year, we look forward to another great year to Pull the Plug on energy hogs. If you are interested in sending your energy hog appliance out to pasture, visit the Pull the Plug web page.
