ATLANTA — In an effort to help Georgians conserve energy and water, save money and protect the environment, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced Georgia's fourth annual Energy Star sales-tax holiday has been expanded for the first time to include WaterSense labeled products. Georgians will not pay state or local sales taxes on the purchase of energy efficient or water efficient products that cost $1,500 or less per item. The sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, and runs through midnight Sunday, Oct. 5.
"As Georgians look at appliances and products that have earned the now-familiar Energy Star designation, I encourage them to also be more aware of water conservation and the impact of using WaterSense labeled products," Perdue said. "The Energy Star and WaterSense sales-tax holiday provides Georgians the perfect opportunity to save money immediately at the cash register and long-term as their water and energy bills go down."
Energy Star designated products meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Qualified Energy Star appliances and products include dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners, ceiling fans, fluorescent light bulbs, dehumidifiers, programmable thermostats, refrigerators, doors and windows
"Through the Energy Star and WaterSense Sales Tax Holiday, Georgians can save money, conserve energy and water, and show their commitment to the stewardship of our environment," said Chris Clark, executive director of the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority.
Many Energy Star qualified appliances use 30 percent less energy than conventional models without sacrificing features, style or comfort.  Some products, such as energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs, save as much as 80 percent.
For more information, go to www.energystar.gov.
The EPA created the WaterSense program to recognize major water consuming products that are 20 percent more water-efficient and perform as well as or better than conventional models. Currently, 264 high efficiency toilets and 209 bathroom faucets and faucet accessories meet the designation and can be found at a variety of price points at retailers across the state.
"WaterSense is an opportunity for Georgians to make an important choice to help the environment," said Carol A. Couch, director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. "The rewards are many, but the most immediate one is the savings you see on your water bill."