How Historic Weatherization Investments Will Make Life Better for Low-Income FamiliesWith an unprecedented $3.5 billion to invest in increasing energy efficiency and safety in more than half a million low-income households across the nation, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is poised to help many Americans save money on their energy bills. The Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) will improve insulation and air sealing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, lighting, and appliances in American homes while lowering energy costs for American families. The Jones family of Waynesboro, Georgia, can speak to the tangible—and potentially life-saving—benefits of home weatherization. When the Joneses were struggling to pay their heating and cooling bills, Georgia’s weatherization program funded and arranged a home energy audit to help reduce their energy use. The auditor found a gas leak and an exposed wire in the family’s attic that was burning insulation and creating smoke. The family evacuated just before a fire broke out. After repairs, WAP completed its weatherization, and the Jones family’s energy bills decreased by an average of $120 a month. You can watch the Joneses tell their story here. Read more |