Weatherization Funds Can Save You Money

The heat of summer will soon be here. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides home weatherization assistance to improve the quality of life for low-income families, particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities and children by improving the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety.

In South Carolina, the Weatherization Assistance Program is coordinated through eight community action agencies throughout the state. (WAP is a formula grant funded by the U.S. Department of Energy).

The Weatherization Assistance Program and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) Weatherization Programs are designed to promote energy efficiency in the residences of low income South Carolinians. These programs provide for energy related improvements to homes and educate consumers about energy conservation.

In order to qualify for these benefit programs, you must be a resident of the State of South Carolina and meet the following Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines:

Family Size | Monthly Income | Annual Income
1        $1,805        $21,660
2        $2,428        $29,140
3        $3,052        $36,620
4        $3,675        $44,100
5        $4,298        $51,580
6        $4,922        $59,060
7        $5,545        $66,540
8        $6,188        $74,020

For each additional person, add $623 Monthly and $7,480 Annually

Priority groups include:

• Households with small children (under the age of 6).
• Households with the highest energy cost and lowest income.
• Households with an elderly resident.
• Households with a disabled resident.
• Other low income households may be eligible for services.

Weatherization and ARRA Weatherization Application Process

• The client must contact the local community action agency.
• Client must meet income eligibility guidelines (see chart above).
• Client applies for weatherization assistance.
• Assessment of the dwelling is conducted; technicians identify energy-related problems.
• List of cost-effective measures developed
• Energy efficiency measures installed
• Client education
• Post-work inspection

The Weatherization and ARRA Weatherization programs are administered through the 14 Community Action Agencies which cover all 46 counties of the state. To find the Community Action Agency in your service area, call 888-771-9404 or visit the OEO web site.