This bill mandates that public utilities in New Jersey, which administer rebate programs for Energy Star-rated residential products and appliances, must offer consumers the option to deduct the rebate amount from the final sale price at the time of purchase. This requirement applies to products and appliances that are part of the public utility's energy efficiency or peak demand reduction programs, as approved by the Board of Public Utilities. Additionally, the public utility is responsible for determining the eligibility criteria for these rebates.

The primary goal of this legislation is to simplify the process for consumers to receive rebates on Energy Star-rated appliances, thereby encouraging more purchases of energy-efficient products. By allowing the rebate to be applied directly at the point of sale, the bill aims to enhance consumer participation in energy conservation efforts and promote the use of Energy Star-rated appliances, ultimately benefiting both consumers and public utilities in their energy efficiency initiatives.