Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
PROVIDENCE, RI – In an effort to help Rhode Islanders improve energy efficiency and save money on their utility bills, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today delivered $14,952,774 in federal funding for Rhode Island’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
This federal funding will allow the Rhode Island Department of Human Services to partner with Community Action Agencies throughout the state to provide weatherization services to eligible households, helping low-income families permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Examples of weatherization assistance includes air sealing, attic and wall insulation, heating system upgrades, energy audits, and window and roof repair and replacement. The program also helps with home health and safety measures, such as installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
“Keeping your house warm in the winter isn’t easy or cheap in Rhode Island — especially with rising fuel prices. That’s why these federal funds are so important. Rhode Island families will get help making their homes more efficient. At the same time as they lower their bills and help the climate, the WAP also creates jobs for energy experts and contractors. That’s a win-win,” said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee who led the bipartisan effort to include $3.5 billion in additional funding for WAP in the newly enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Studies show that low-income people and senior citizens spend a disproportionate share of their income on heating and electricity. Energy efficiency improvements can significantly cut or eliminate the excess energy burden experienced by these households.
WAP grants are administered by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS) with applications available at local Community Action Programs. Priority is given to households with children, seniors, persons with disabilities, and those receiving Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds. Successful applicants develop a personal action plan to help reduce household energy costs and implement conservation measures. Both homeowners and renters with the permission of their landlords may apply, and the program assists all types of housing including single-family homes, multi-family buildings, and manufactured homes.
For every dollar invested by WAP, $4.50 is generated in combined energy savings and non-energy benefits such as job creation, according to the U.S Department of Energy (DOE). DOE reports that through weatherization improvements and upgrades, WAP households save $283 in heating and cooling costs year after year at current prices.
For more information on WAP services and eligibility, visit: http://www.dhs.ri.gov/Programs/WAPProgramInfo.php or your local CAP provider at: https://www.ricommunityaction.org/member-services/default.aspx
Rhode Island residents with weatherization questions may direct them to: dhs.wap@dhs.ri.gov