Chicago Tribune: If you’ve been thinking about replacing that energy-hogging refrigerator or outdated dishwasher, now might be the time. A nationwide program that gives rebates for consumers purchasing Energy Star appliances will soon be in full force. As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Department of Energy has doled out $300 million for rebate programs in the U.S. and its territories aimed at reducing home energy usage. The rebates can mean hundreds of dollars off …