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State & Local Projects

Weatherization Assistance Program

Section: Division A, Title IV | Agency: Dept. of Community Affairs

ARRA allocates $5 billion for Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAPs) across the country. The Weatherization Assistance Program annually provides funds to community action agencies, local governments and non-profit agencies to provide specific program services for low-income families throughout the state. The mission of the program is to reduce the monthly energy burden of low-income households by improving the energy efficiency of the home. Full details about Florida's program are available at: http://www.floridacommunitydevelopment.org/wap/index.cfm

Brief description of program or funding including funding distribution method (formula or competitive grant):

The program is funded each year by the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE) and often receives supplemental funding through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) which is funded annually through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

To be eligible for WAP services, total household income may not be more than 150% of the federal poverty level.  Preference is given to owner-occupied homes, elderly (60 years-plus) or physically disabled residents, families with children under 12 and households with a high energy burden (repeated high utility bills). 

The program will repair or replace heating and cooling units, address air infiltration with weather stripping, caulking, thresholds, minor repairs to walls, ceilings, and floors, window and door replacement, install attic and floor insulation and repair or replace water heaters. This is one of the only programs that can provide services for a mobile home, as well as a site-built dwelling.

The USDOE guidance package for WAP was published on March 12, 2009, and is available at http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/wip/pdfs/wap_recovery_act_foa.pdf.   Provisions that are changed under the stimulus program are:

·         Eligible income must not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level (up from 150% in current program).

·         Maximum amount to be spent per dwelling unit increased from $2,500 to $6,500. 

Funding is distributed through a formula directed by the USDOE and is based upon the low-income population of the state in comparing the low-income population of each county and factors in the number of heating and cooling days in each of the three climate zones of the state.

When funds are expected to be available: 

USDOE intends to obligate the ARRA funds based on the following milestones:

10% of total allocation at time of initial application received on March 23, 2009.

40% of total allocation upon USDOE approval of the State Plan and Comprehensive Application submission which is due within on May 12, 2009.

Remaining balance (50%) of total allocation may be released after first year – release based on USDOE review of progress in obligating funds, complying with all reporting requirements, and creating jobs. 

How long are funds available: Until March 31, 2012

Conditions or prerequisites for accessing funds (include matching or MOE requirements):  

March 23, 2009 - Weatherization Assistance Program, initial application and registration (completed)

May 12, 2009 - Weatherization Assistance Program Comprehensive Application Package due (completed)

No state match or MOE requirement in ARRA.