The NCRPC administers the Weatherization Assistance Program for 41 Kansas counties. Since 1979, more than 14,500 homes have received assistance through NCRPC.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, households that receive weatherization services experience average annual energy cost savings of $283. A Trego County resident knows firsthand the financial impact of the Weatherization Assistance Program.
When the Trego County client applied for weatherization assistance, her home had many broken windows, an old HVAC system, and high utility costs. She also felt the financial burden of needing to have items in her home repaired and upgraded.
The client turned to NCRPC for assistance. The organization is one of four contracted weatherization service providers in Kansas. The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, while ensuring their health and safety.
After the client’s application was approved and the home inspected, work could begin. Measures that were installed in the Trego County home include a new 92% forced air furnace with ductwork, new windows, high/low combustion vents, more efficient lighting, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, venting an exhaust fan to the exterior, as well as various air sealing measures. According to the client, there has been great improvement in her utility usage as well as the comfort and condition of her home since weatherization was completed. It has also allowed her to turn her focus toward other items of her home that need attention.
The NCRPC administers the Weatherization Assistance Program for 41 Kansas counties. Since 1979, more than 14,500 homes have received assistance through NCRPC.
Eligibility for the program is based solely on income. Funding for this program is provided by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).
October marks Energy Action Month and October 30 is recognized as Weatherization Day.
To learn more about the program or how to apply, visit www.ncrpc.org/services/housing/weatherization/.
This article appeared in the September 2019 NCRPC Newsletter.
