Hawaiian Electric Co. said yesterday it is offering rebates from $40 to $75 to consumers who purchase appliances that have been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency in its "Energy Star" program.

The rebate is intended to help offset the initial cost of energy-efficient appliances that are typically priced higher than standard models, said Derrick Sonoda, HECO's Energy$olutions for the Home program manager. The energy savings also will result in lower utility costs over time, Sonoda added.

"By purchasing appliances that carry the Energy Star label, an average family can save nearly $80 a year on energy costs depending on the items and their usage," Sonoda said.

Also, customers with residential central air conditioning can earn a one-time $50 rebate to have their A/C unit professionally serviced using HECO's service checklist so that the unit performs more efficiently. A properly maintained central air conditioning unit can save up to 20 percent on cooling costs, HECO said.

To qualify for these HECO rebates, Sonoda recommended home owners shop around and check the www.energystar.gov Web site to be sure the brand and model they plan to purchase is listed.

Then go to www.heco.com to download a rebate application or pick one up at a local appliance retailer, complete the form and turn it in with the original receipts to Hawaiian Electric Company, P.O. Box 3920, Honolulu, HI 96812-3920.

For more information, call 947-6937 or visit www.heco.com and click on "residential."