The initiative, part of the state's new Appliance Upgrade Program, aims to replace inefficient electric or fossil fuel-powered clothes dryers with heat pump-powered alternatives.

Hochul said: "New York is demonstrating its continued commitment to ensuring an equitable energy transition by leveraging all federal funds available to incentivize consumers to make energy-efficient appliance purchases a priority. As a result of these new rebates, low- and moderate-income New Yorkers will save energy and money while doing their laundry with modern technology that will reduce emissions."

New York launches retail rebates for energy-efficient appliances (AP Photo/Hans Pennink, File)

The program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Home Energy Rebate Programs.

New York has been granted $317.4 million in federal funding, with $159 million from the Home Efficiency Rebates program and $158.4 million from the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate program.

NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, NYSERDA is pleased to start distributing this IRA funding for home appliance rebates through a customer-centric approach that ensures low-and moderate-income New Yorkers can easily upgrade inefficient clothes drying equipment or purchase a dryer for the first time.

Eligible customers earning up to 150% of the state's area median income can apply for rebates on a first-come, first-served basis. The rebates cover Energy Star certified heat pump clothes dryers and necessary electrical upgrades. Households may receive up to $840 for the appliance purchase and installation, with additional incentives for electrical wiring and panel upgrades.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the program, saying, The Home Energy Rebate Program will save families money as they upgrade to more energy-efficient clothes dryers, creating a more affordable and cleaner future for all of New York.

Representative Dan Goldman added, It is more important than ever that we provide consumers with the opportunities to transition away from fossil fuel sources and facilitate the shift toward renewable energy.

NYSERDA has also launched the MyEnergy portal, a resource for information on state and federal incentives, home energy technologies, and participating retailers and contractors. The portal will assist consumers in applying for appliance incentives and connect them with local experts for support.

New York's climate agenda aims for a clean energy economy by 2050, focusing on carbon neutrality across various sectors, including energy, buildings, transportation, and waste.

According to cbs6albany.com