Creating Jobs in Home Efficiency

For forty years, the Energy Department’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) has advanced greater energy efficiency in low-income households for the elderly, disabled, and families through grants to states, territories, and Native American tribes. It is estimated that more than 50 million homes are eligible for weatherization improvements. To date, the federal program has helped weatherize more than 7 million homes, helping to improve the health and safety of occupants while reducing energy bills. Home energy costs can be especially high during cold winter months.

WAP services every political subdivision in the country through a strong network of 59 grantees: 50 states, the District of Columbia, five U.S. territories, and three select Native American tribes. These grantees contract with a network of almost 800 community action agencies, nonprofits, and local governments to install cost-effective energy conservation measures in homes.

Weatherization upgrades typically enhance insulation, air sealing, heating and cooling systems. Recently solar PV installations were also added to the program. These improvements reduce carbon pollution, save families money, and prevent low-income Americans from having to choose between food, medicine, and heat for their home.

Read more (Energy.gov)