Weatherization Assistance Program
Stored: Weatherization Assistance Program, Weatherization Assistance Program
| Type | Program |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Organization | Office of State and Community Energy Programs |
| Top Organization | Department of Energy |
| Creation Legislation | Energy Conservation and Production Act of 1976 |
| Website | Website |
| Purpose | To reduce energy costs for low-income households by improving the energy efficiency of their homes, thereby enhancing comfort, safety, and affordability. It aims to lower national energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.[1] |
| Program Start | 1976 |
| Initial Funding | |
| Duration | Indefinite |
| Historic | No |
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) was created in 1976 to help low-income families reduce energy consumption and costs. WAP is governed by various federal regulations designed to help manage and account for the resources provided by the Department of Energy (DOE). WAP funding is derived from annual appropriations from Congress. Each year, the Senate and House Interior Appropriations committees decide how much funding to allocate to the Program.
Certified Energy Auditors perform energy audits on a home to help locate efficiency problems. Once an audit is complete, the program can help by insulating walls and windows, replacing broken glass, and testing, repairing, and/or replacing combustion appliances. Like the LIHEAP, an individual's income level must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level to be eligible for the WAP. Many state WAPs and LIHEAPs work together to provide the best energy services for low-income households.
Weatherization measures may include caulking, weather-stripping, insulation, vent dampers, replacement of broken glass, repair or replacement of primary doors, and furnace tune-ups. Weatherization workers may not be able to install all the materials, but they will do the most important weatherization within the dollar limits allowed.
When a home is scheduled for weatherization service, a crew will come to install the necessary materials in the home. After the work is completed, the client will be asked to sign a statement saying the work was done properly and to the client's satisfaction. Surveys have shown that weatherizing a home can significantly decrease winter heating or energy bills.
Goals
- Reduce energy costs for low-income households.
- Enhance the energy efficiency of homes while ensuring safety.
- Improve health, comfort, and indoor air quality for participants.[2]
- Specific targets include weatherizing approximately 32,000 homes annually with DOE funds.[2]
Organization
WAP is administered by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). The program operates through a network of local agencies, including community action agencies, non-profits, and state energy offices. Funding is provided via grants to states, which then distribute these funds to local providers. Partnerships are crucial, involving local governments, utility companies, and other stakeholders.[2]
Impact and Outcomes
- Since 1976, WAP has helped over 7.2 million families.[2]
- Households save an average of $372 or more annually on energy costs.[2]
- The program has also contributed to job creation, supporting about 8,500 jobs annually.[2]
- Challenges include reaching all eligible households and maintaining program funding levels.
Sponsors
Background and History
The Weatherization Assistance Program was established in response to the energy crisis of the 1970s under the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976. It was designed to address rising energy costs by improving home insulation and efficiency for low-income families. Over the years, WAP has expanded its scope to include health and safety measures, and with additional funding from legislation like the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), it has significantly increased its reach and impact.[2]
Funding
- The program has been funded annually by Congress, with additional boosts from special legislation like ARRA.
- Funding began with the program's inception in 1976.
- There is no set end date for funding, though it depends on annual appropriations.
Implementation
- States receive funds based on a formula considering population, climate, and energy costs.
- Local agencies conduct energy audits and implement weatherization measures like insulation, sealing air leaks, and repair or replacement of heating systems.
- There's no defined end date for WAP; it's considered an ongoing program.
Leadership
The program is led by the Director of the Weatherization and Intergovernmental Programs Office within EERE.[2]
See Also
External Links
Social media
- No official social media accounts for WAP were found.
References
- ↑ "Weatherization Assistance Program". https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
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