The Karamanlis government announced a program last week to subsidize the cost for households of replacing air-conditioning units, in response to the higher profile given to ‘Green’ issues in the run-up to the European parliamentary elections.
A government subsidy of up to 500 euros, or 30 percent of the retail price, will be offered when households turn in their old appliances and purchase a new air conditioner.
Each household can buy up to two air conditioners with the subsidy.
“The basic aim of the program is for households to save energy during the peak summer period, something that will bring multiple benefits for the environment and the economy,” Development Minister Costis Hatzidakis said.
The ministry anticipates that between 50,000 and 60,000 air conditioners will be replaced in the six-month program set to start next week.
The initiative follows recent announcements that households will be able to install solar-energy equipment to cover their power needs with relatively few bureaucratic procedures in a move that will promote renewable energy sources.
“The promotion of green energy and the saving of energy is high on the government agenda. That is why we will continue in this same direction,” Hatzidakis said, adding that the initiative might be extended to include fridges.