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(Washington D.C.)- The US Department of Energy released $288 million in weatherization assistance funds today, including $97.3 million for Michigan. Macomb County received $3.2 million and Oakland County received $4.4 million. The counties previously received funds for training and ramp-up activities, and will be eligible for additional funds ($4 million for Macomb and $5.5 million for Oakland) after the state meets reporting guidelines. The funding, to be administered by Macomb County Community Services Agency and Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency respectively, will provide home energy audits and weatherization improvements to local eligible homeowners.
“Weatherization assistance not only helps Michigan families lower their utility bills, but it also creates local job opportunities,” said Rep. Levin. “The Recovery Act invests in programs like this to create jobs, reduce energy use and save consumers money.”
The Weatherization Assistance Program is available to families making up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level – or about $44,000 a year for a family of four. Homes selected to participate in the program will receive a unique audit to determine which weatherization activities are most cost effective. Some of the most common procedures include the repair, insulation, and sealing of ducts and the installation of insulation in walls and attics. Weatherization funds can also be used to install energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs and replace energy consuming refrigerators and water heaters.
The Recovery Act allocated $5 billion for weatherization. After Michigan demonstrates successful implementation of funding released thus far, the state will receive over $121 million in additional funding, for a total of more than $243 million. The final release of funding will complete the Macomb and Oakland allocations.
For more information:
Macomb County Community Services Agency: http://www.macombcountymi.gov/MCCSA/wx.htm
Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency: http://www.olhsa.org/doe.asp?catID=3&cty=oak
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