Marylanders who wait until March to switch to certain energy-efficient electric water heaters, refrigerators and clothes washers will be eligible for a federal "cash for appliances" rebate, according to the Maryland Energy Administration.

The U.S. Department of Energy approved Maryland's proposal for the energy-efficient appliances rebate program Thursday. The state's share is $5.4 million, paid for by stimulus plan dollars. Under the approved terms, consumers can apply for a $300 rebate after purchasing an electric heat pump water heater, which is more energy-efficient than standard electric water heaters. Those who buy certain clothes washers will receive $50 and those who buy specified refrigerators will get $25. Both must exceed Energy Star ratings standards for customers to qualify.

When the programs begin in March, Maryland utility companies such as Baltimore Gas and Electric Co., Pepco and Delmarva Power and Light will process the rebate claims.

Lists of qualifying appliances will be available in stores and on utility Web sites, as well as through the Maryland Energy Administration, said Laura Swiston of the MEA's Residential Energy Efficiency program.