PROVIDENCE — The state has begun a rebate program to encourage landscaping businesses to use electric leaf blowers.

The General Assembly has appropriated $250,000 in general revenue funds to the Office of Energy Resources to administer the program, under which eligible businesses can receive $1,000 or 50% (whichever is less) of the cost of an electric leaf blower and related batteries. Additionally, eligible businesses located in municipalities with the highest asthma rates can receive an additional $250 rebate. Prices of commercial electric leaf blowers online range from $400 to more than $2,000.

There are a number of reasons to switch to electric leaf blowers, including: they are quieter than traditional combustion engine leaf blowers, and therefore create less noise pollution; and electric blowers help reduce air pollutants that can lead to adverse health effects like asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and other respiratory problems. Traditional leaf blowers emit a variety of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and unburnt hydrocarbons that contribute to climate change and smog.

Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and rebates are not guaranteed. According to the state, to maximize the chance of receiving a rebate, it’s critical to submit the application and all required documentation immediately after buying eligible equipment.

Only purchases made on or after the program launch date of Nov. 21 qualify for rebates. The online application portal will close at 11:59 p.m. June 30. All applications and required backup paperwork must be submitted by this date to be eligible for reimbursement. The application process can be found here.

Applicants are encouraged to act promptly to secure funding, the state said, as the program has limited money is expected to reach capacity quickly.