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Provide financial assistance to reduce energy costs
Released Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 7:00 AM
Gov. Kay Ivey is allocating funds to help low-income residents reduce their energy costs. Photo from Gov. Kay Ivey's Facebook page.
Governor Kay Ivey recently allocated more than $5.8 million in grant funding to organizations that help low-income families reduce their energy costs through home weatherization, according to a recent news release from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). The funding is part of Alabama's Weatherization Assistance Program and is designed to improve the energy efficiency and safety of eligible homes, with priority given to households with children, seniors and people with disabilities.
Among the recipients, Organized Community Action Program Inc. received $558,584 to support operations in Butler, Bullock, Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes and Pike counties.
“Changes in the weather have led to skyrocketing costs for heating and cooling homes, forcing many to make difficult decisions about how to spend their limited funds,” Ivey said. “These grants will help low-income households make modifications that will significantly reduce their heating and cooling costs.”
Each qualified home undergoes an energy audit to identify the most cost-effective improvements. Common improvements include adding insulation to the attic, walls and floors, preventing air leaks around doors and windows, inspecting air conditioning and heating systems and replacing incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency bulbs. These improvements not only reduce energy bills, but also reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.
Energy Star, a program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), estimates that by air-sealing a home and strategically adding insulation, homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs.
The grants were awarded to 13 community agencies across the state, which administer the programs at the local level and accept applications from individuals seeking assistance. Administration of the grants falls under ADECA, which is supported by funding provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“Increasing the energy efficiency of homes is a lasting solution that will reduce utility bills,” said ADECA President Kenneth Boswell. “ADECA works with Governor Ivey to support these local agencies as they help families with long-term improvements that will significantly reduce their monthly utility bills.”
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