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Project Stove Swap Eligibility

Eligibility Requirements

Due to unexpectedly high demand, Environmental Initiative is not currently accepting new applications for Project Stove Swap. We hope to re-open applications again soon. Read below to learn more about eligibility requirements.

  1. Participants must live in Aitkin, Beltrami, Carver, Cass, Carlton, Cook, Crow Wing, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, LeSueur, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pine, Rice, Scott, Stearns, St. Louis, Todd, or Wadena county. Geographic area may expand as vendors are added to the program.
  2. Appliances being replaced must be a primary or major source of heat for a residence or frequently used nonresidential building.
  3. At least two cords of wood must be burned annually.
  4. The appliance being replaced must be a non-EPA certified or qualified appliance. These typically include appliances that were manufactured before 1992. Our team can help determine if your existing appliance is eligible for replacement.
  5. Project Stove Swap replaces wood and pellet stoves and inserts, hydronic heaters, wood furnaces, gas furnaces, and gas stoves and inserts. New devices must be EPA certified or Energy Star certified, respectively, and reasonably energy efficient.
  6. Old appliances changed out must be rendered inoperable and properly recycled.
  7. Program participants will be provided with a moisture meter and must sign a pledge to burn only dry wood (less than 20% moisture content).
  8. Installations and upgrades must be done in accordance with any applicable state, county, or municipal codes/ordinances and manufacturer installation instructions. In addition, it is suggested that installations comply with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s model zoning ordinance for hydronic heaters.
  9. New appliances must be installed by a certified professional, including National Fireplace Institute® (NFI) professional, Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) professional, licensed plumber or HVAC contractor, or licensed electrician, commensurate with the work being performed, as verified by appliance vendors.
  10. Only vented gas systems are allowed. Unvented systems, open hearth conversions, or gas log sets will not be funded.