Stimulus funding would help weatherize homes, develop clean energy, promote more efficient appliances

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced that Maine will be getting an additional  $26 million in federal funding to help weatherize Maine homes and make other energy savings improvements.
 
“We have some of the oldest housing stock in the country,” Pingree said. “This money is going to make it possible for families to add insulation, plug leaks and install more efficient heating systems. And this weatherization work will create jobs right here in Maine. These investments will save people money on their utility bills and put Mainers back to work.”
 
Maine will be getting over $16 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program, which can help reduce heating bills for low and moderate income families across the state
 
 “I know what it’s like to try and heat an old and leaky house,” Pingree said. “And what a difference some caulk and insulation can make. Unfortunately those improvements are out of reach for some Maine families, which is why this federal funding is so badly needed.”
 
Maine is also in line to get nearly $11 million for the State Energy Program, which is administered by the Public Utilities Commission in Maine as part of Efficiency Maine. Examples of existing State Energy Program initiatives include low-interest loans for energy conservation, installations by small businesses and free energy audits for small businesses.

Maine is one of 13 states getting the weatherization funding and one of 6 states in line for the State Energy Program money.