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Rebate offer proves popular
Members save $150 on washers

More than 320 Co-op members have taken advantage of rebates to purchase energy-efficient washing machines since the program began Jan. 1.

The rebate applies to purchases made after Jan. 1, 2003, for units installed in the Co-op’s service area.

"This has proven to be a very popular program, and it’s a great benefit for our members," said Energy Services Coordinator Ross Holter.

Flathead Electric members are eligible for a $100 rebate from the Co-op, plus through July 15 a manufacturer’s rebate of $50, on Energy Star-rated washing machines. The machines use considerably less water and leave clothes dryer than conventional machines, so there’s a significant energy savings.

If you’re in the market for a new washing machine, this is a great time to buy.

Flathead Electric journeyman lineman Todd Scholer, front, and Neel Michael of Utilx prepare to test a section of underground cable to be treated with a silicone-based substance that will extend the life of the cable by at least 20 years. Flathead Electric plans to treat about 23,000 feet of cable using the process, which is much less expensive than installing new cable.

Loans offered for energy projects

Eligible items include heat pumps, windows, insulation

    Flathead Electric members soon will be able to apply for a bank loan to pay for home energy improvements under a program sponsored by the Bonneville Power Administration in conjunction with the First Mutual Bank of Bellevue, Wash.
    “We’re working with Mutual Bank of Bellevue and local vendors to implement this program in our area,” said Energy Services Coordinator Ross Holter. “We hope it will benefit our members by enabling them to pay for energy conservation measures in their homes.”
    Under the program, homeowners apply for a loan through participating vendors to purchase energy improvements, including heat pumps, energy-efficient windows and home and insulation. Holter noted that members who apply for a bank loan to purchase a heat pump may also apply for the rebate offered by the Co-op.
    First Mutual provides the funds for the program and pays the cost of measures installed. The vendor offers the loan to the homeowner and the homeowner repays First Mutual.
    Homeowners may borrow up to $20,000 for up to 12 years. Interest rates change with the size of the loan and may vary, but recently have ranged between 8.9 and 12.9 percent. The loans are unsecured and no deed of trust is required by the bank.
    Vendors will present loan documents to the bank, and decisions are nearly instantaneous, and are almost always given within 24 hours.
    Homeowners of single-family dwellings up to a four-plex are eligible to apply for a loan under the program. Commercial properties are not eligible for loans under this program.
    Holter emphasized that the program is in its initial stages, but response from local vendors has been positive.
    "We’re optimistic about the benefits of this new loan program for our members," he said.

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