Weatherization assistance for low-income families - $71,800,599

The stimulus act includes an allocation of $71,800,599 to provide assistance to low-income families in Alabama through ADECA’s Weatherization Assistance Program. The program reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes. Eligible applicants have their houses assessed to determine what weatherization measures are needed to maximize energy efficiency. Improvements typically include adding insulation; sealing leaky ductwork, windows and bypasses to reduce air leaks; installing compact fluorescent lamps; and servicing heating and cooling systems. Health and safety diagnostic services also are provided.

As of October 2010 ADECA has awarded $62.4 million of the funding allocated to Alabama as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to 14 community action agencies, one local government and one nonprofit agency across the state. These recipients administer the program at the local level. Click here for a list of amounts awarded by county. To date, those agencies have weatherized 2,797 houses, or 41 percent of the total houses to receive weatherization assistance funded through ARRA. Click here for a summary of the totals by agency and click here for a list of expenditures by agency.

For 2010, any household with income less than 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines is eligible for weatherization assistance. Residents may apply for assistance at the agency covering the county in which they live. Click here for a list of the agencies.