American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
What is Weatherization Assistance Program ARRA?
The stimulus funds will be used to expand weatherization businesses and create weatherization jobs in Idaho, while helping existing businesses that produce the vehicles, insulation, windows, doors and HVAC equipment needed for increased weatherization production. Reduced energy demand decreases the environmental impact of energy consumption.
Low and middle income households will benefit from decreased utility bills and increased health and safety. The households will be able to spend the freed up resources on food, clothing, healthcare and education.
Idaho received, through the Federal Recovery Act for weatherization of low and middle income households $30,341,929.
Idaho’s plan is to expend the funding and complete production at the end of two years with 75% of the funding spent in the first 18 months.
CAPAI defines weatherization as the practice of modifying a low or middle income residence to reduce energy consumption and optimize energy efficiency. Currently, it is not renewable energy installations, for example, solar panel installation.
To qualify, households must be at or below 200% of poverty and meet home audit requirements for the installation of weatherization measures.
The weatherization application process remains unchanged. To apply, please contact your local Community Action Partnership. To identify which Community Action Partnership agency is in your area, Community Action.
Information on the impact of stimulus funding on anti-poverty initiatives in Idaho, including job creation, can be found on this link. State and Local Energy Report.