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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2008
CONTACT:
Carol Maravic
(717) 787-6725
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Sen. Orie Says Hybrid Vehicle Rebates Still Available; Funding Provided Under Alternative Fuels Incentive Act

Consumers who are considering purchasing a fuel-efficient hybrid electric vehicle or have purchased one in the past six months are eligible for a $500 rebate from the state, according to Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny).

In July, the Legislature passed the Alternative Fuels Incentive Act, which is designed to encourage the development of homegrown biofuels.  It provides funding for grants and loans to projects geared at improving energy supply and efficiency, improved conservation and reduced demand for energy – with no tax increases.

"Our focus needs to be on helping energy consumers," said Sen. Orie.  "Energy costs are going up, and the state should support energy conservation and alternative energy development as a long-term way to reduce the impact those rates have on Pennsylvania families."

Under the program, more than $1 million is available to provide rebates to drivers who purchase hybrid electric vehicles that help drivers conserve fuel, save money, and reduce the state's dependence on imported oil.

"The goal of this rebate program is to encourage more Pennsylvania families to purchase energy efficient hybrid vehicles," Orie said.  "They are a win-win proposition because they help drivers save money and they also reduce air pollution."

Rebates will be provided only for purchasing the cleanest and most fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles. In order to qualify, the total city and highway miles per gallon ratings as measured by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must meet or exceed 55 mpg. The hybrid vehicle must also have a carbon footprint of less than 7.0-tons-per-year of carbon dioxide as accounted by www.fueleconomy.gov.

The Department of Environmental Protection maintains a list of eligible vehicles that is updated monthly at www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Hybrid Vehicle Rebates.

To claim the Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebate, vehicle purchasers must submit a completed form no later than six months after their purchase to: Department of Environmental Protection, HEV Rebate Program, and P.O. Box 8772, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8772.  The following information should be included with the completed rebate form:

• Copy of a valid Pennsylvania vehicle registration. The name appearing on the vehicle registration card must appear on the dealer invoice.
• Copy of the bill of sale.
• Proof of the vehicle purchase. This can be a copy of the front and back of a cancelled check, the finance agreement or an invoice indicating a zero balance due and receipt of payment in full.

Rebate forms, guidance and instructions are available at www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Hybrid Vehicle Rebates, or by calling 866-294-3854 or 717-214-3492.