A successful recycling program is creating big savings for co-op members across Indiana, Illinois and Missouri. Last May, Wabash Valley Power Association launched a refrigerator and freezer recycling program.

Members who have additional older working refrigerators and freezers can have them picked up and recycled by a third-party recycling company at no cost to the cooperative member. In fact, members receive a $35 incentive for participating in the program.

In 2010, Wabash Valley Power Association recycled 2,187 refrigerators and freezers, saving a total of more than 1.6 million kilowatt-hours.

Refrigerators and freezers made before 1993 use approximately twice as much electricity as today’s models. In most homes, refrigerators and freezers are the third largest user of electricity. Recycling an older, extra appliance can result in savings of $120 or more annually for an average annual electric bill.

The refrigerator must be plugged in and working to qualify for the program. The energy savings achieved by removing the old appliances will help address the increasing demand for electricity.

"Our goal is to lower the overall demand for electricity and help prolong the need for additional power plants," said Kara Baker, Marketing Coordinator. "Energy efficiency efforts like the refrigerator and freezer recycling program help the electric cooperative keep electricity affordable for its members."