Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program: Save 10% When You Upgrade

Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program: Save 10% When You Upgrade

South Korea’s Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program is gaining strong attention among consumers. By purchasing appliances with the highest energy efficiency grade (Grade 1), buyers can receive a 10% rebate (up to KRW 300,000 per person). The program covers 11 major home appliances, including TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines. With the rebate benefits and rising awareness of energy savings, more households are replacing old appliances with high-efficiency models.

Program Overview

This initiative applies to purchases made after July 4, 2025, following the passage of the supplementary budget. Applications opened on August 13, with rebate payments beginning on August 20. The total program budget is KRW 267.1 billion, and the program will continue until funds are exhausted. As of now, about 30% of the budget has already been consumed.

Consumers can apply through the official website: www.으뜸효율.kr, where eligible products and step-by-step application guides are available.

Consumer Stories: Saving Money and the Environment

One Seoul resident, Ms. Yoon (54), replaced her 20-year-old refrigerator through the program. “The noise and frequent malfunctions were unbearable. When I learned about the rebate, I finally made the switch,” she said. By purchasing a Grade 1 refrigerator, she was able to receive the maximum rebate of KRW 300,000. Yoon added that she plans to use the rebate to upgrade other appliances as well.

She also expressed pride in contributing to environmental protection, saying, “Buying an energy-efficient appliance not only saves money but also helps address the climate crisis.”

Retail Impact and Industry Response

Large retailers such as Lotte Hi-Mart are actively promoting the rebate program with special summer sales, online campaigns, and additional store benefits. Sales data reflects its impact: from July 4 to August 13, sales of energy-efficient refrigerators increased by about 30% compared to the same period last year. At the Lotte Hi-Mart Sejong branch, Grade 1 appliances accounted for 32% of total sales in August, and in some branches, that figure reached nearly 40%.

“Customers often ask whether products are Grade 1 or not. Since the program launched, inquiries and sales have increased significantly,” said branch manager Lee Young-jong.

Act Before the Budget Runs Out

Currently, about 30% of the rebate budget has been used, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy expects the program to generate sales 10 times greater than its budget. Roughly 65% of this boost is expected to benefit small and medium-sized enterprises directly or indirectly. Since the rebate is available only until funds last, households planning to upgrade appliances are advised to apply quickly.

Although initial demand temporarily slowed processing times, officials expect application and rebate delays to ease by mid-September.

🔎 Key Summary

- 10% rebate on Grade 1 energy-efficient appliances (max KRW 300,000 per person)
- Eligible products: 11 categories including refrigerators, air conditioners, TVs, and washing machines
- Purchases after July 4, 2025, qualify for rebates
- Total budget KRW 267.1 billion; 30% already consumed
- Program boosts domestic demand and supports SMEs

FAQ: Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program

1. Which appliances are eligible?

11 categories, including TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, as long as they are Grade 1 energy-efficient models.

2. How much can I get back?

10% of the purchase price, up to KRW 300,000 per person.

3. Until when is the program available?

Until the allocated budget is fully used. About 30% is already consumed.

4. How do I apply?

Apply via the official website (www.으뜸효율.kr) by submitting purchase receipts, product labels, and energy efficiency certification.

5. When will rebates be paid?

Rebate payments began on August 20, 2025, and are processed in the order of application.

Conclusion: Smart Shopping for Your Wallet and the Planet

The Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program is more than just a financial benefit—it promotes environmental sustainability, boosts domestic consumption, and strengthens the competitiveness of local manufacturers. For consumers, it means lower electricity bills, rebate savings, and the satisfaction of contributing to a greener future. With funds being consumed quickly, now is the perfect time to replace outdated appliances with smarter, energy-saving models.

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