The so-called "cash for kitchen clunkers" is taking shape with the government releasing more information on how the program will work and how much each state will get from the $300 million program.

With cash for appliances, the government will use about $300 million from its massive economic stimulus bill and Nebraska gets $1.7 million. It's intended to offer rebates as incentive to people who switch out their old appliances for new, energy efficient ones.

Some say the program's already working, but hasn't even started.

Ernie's in Ceresco has had many questions since the government announced its so-called "cash for kitchen clunkers" plan.

"Everyday someone is asking questions about that," said Allan Pearson, appliance department manager at Ernie's.

According to the Department of Energy, the program won't even start until March, 2010, but appliance manufacturers are taking advantage of the hype by offering discounts of their own.

"We will take an active roll in this," said Pearson.

Some companies like General Electric are offering $100 rebates on certain Energy Star models already.

"They want to keep the consumer interested now, knowing that yes, there will be a rebate coming. But there are rebates and incentives now," he said.

The government is pushing Energy Star rated appliances because of the amazing efficiency. For example, an average Energy Star washing machine can save enough money over its lifespan to pay for the dryer.

"The positive this is, trying to promote the Energy Star appliances saves you money and saves the environment," Pearson said.

Two years ago Joyce Palensky swapped out all her old appliances for Energy Star.

"Definitely," Palensky answered after being asked if she'd saved money. "It would have to be 50 percent. I think it has cut it in half compared to the old model I had."

While the rebates are months away, Ernie's reminds customers to act fast once the program's here because rebates are first come first serve.

Cash for appliances will offer rebates between $50 and $250 depending on the appliance. Not all appliances will qualify. Each customer will get two rebates

Go the the hotbutton on our homepage for more information from the Department of Energy.