HONOLULU -- The federal government has a new rebate program it hopes will have a similar success to Cash for Clunkers. It is called Cash for Appliances.

The state expects to get Cash for Appliance money before the end of the year to reward thousands of Hawaii residents for buying new, energy-efficient appliances.

The goal is to encourage people to replace their energy draining, clunker washers and refrigerators with energy-efficient models.

Each state runs its own Cash for Appliances stimulus grant.

In Hawaii, the rebates will be managed by an existing state program that gives you money back when you buy an Energy Star efficient appliance. To qualify, people must get rid of their old appliance.

"We will take existing programs at their current level and extend them to a broader number of people," said State Strategic Industries Director Ted Peck.

Cash for Appliances will add $1.2 million into the state's current appliance rebate program allowing more people to qualify for appliance rebates. Up to 6,000 more residents are expected to get rebates.

Shaun Ching is remodeling his Alewa Heights house and is in the market for appliances.

"They are giving all these rebates for cars and now you get to have it for appliances. So this stimulus is pretty exciting and it's beneficial to everyone. I am looking forward to it," said Ching.

Appliance stores are eager for the boost.

"I definitely know, for a fact, that it will bring more people into the store. Everyone is looking for a great deal. This is a benefit to the store and to the economy," said Home Depot Assistant Manager Carol Sealy.

Details are still being worked out on which appliances will quality for rebates.