New Mowers for Old

For Immediate Release
June 9, 2004

Pepco Sponsors Maryland Anti-Pollution Lawnmower Exchange
Register Now for June 19 Event

Looking for a way to help clear the air? How about a huge discount on a new, electric mower?

Maryland residents in the D.C. metro area can trade in their old, but still working gas mowers for new, electric-powered Black & Decker models. A typical 2.5 horsepower gas-powered lawnmower emits the same amount of air pollutants as a new car running at 70 mph.

The “Maryland Mow Down Exchange” program is sponsored by Pepco and run by the Maryland Department of Transportation in partnership with the Maryland Department of the Environment, Black & Decker and Home Depot.

Registered participants in the “Mow Down” can bring their old gas-powered mower to the Comcast Center at the University of Maryland’s College Park campus on June 19 between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. and exchange it for the right to purchase – on the spot – a deeply discounted brand new electric mower.

Two Black & Decker electric mower models are available: an 18” Electric Lawnhog mulching mower for $79.97 (retail price $179.99) and a Black & Decker CMM1000 24 Volt 19” cordless rechargeable mulching mower with bag for $149.97 (retail price $449.00). These are discounted 60-70 percent from the suggested retail price.

Only 1,000 participants are guaranteed a trade-in, so immediate registration is recommended.

To register, go online to: www.cleanmowermd.com and click on “Registration Form” at the top of the page. A link to this page is also available at www.pepco.com. Once you have completed the form and clicked “Submit Registration Form,” you will receive an e-mail confirmation. Bring the e-mail confirmation and your old mower to the Comcast Center. Only those with confirmations are guaranteed the chance to take part in the exchange.