Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Online

noreply@blogger.com (NASCSP Association) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 22:05:00 +0000

The WAPTAC.org Blog has moved. You can find the latest version fully integrated with the new WAPTAC.org website.

NASCSP Response to AP article by Ms. Garance Burke

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 20:54:00 +0000

Since the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act), there has been much negative press concerning the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and its ability to deliver on the promise of the Act to put people back to work quickly while significantly reducing home energy costs for vulnerable low-income households. Many news articles, including the recent “Stimulus Watch: Weatherization Program falling short” by AP reporter Garance Burke, reiterate that the anticipated number of jobs and weatherized units have not yet materialized. For those who read beyond the pessimistic headlines and gloomy opening paragraphs, the stories also acknowledge some of the significant obstacles that confronted the Weatherization Program network. These obstacles have largely been overcome and those knowledgeable about the program expect the network to reach full production in the next 60-90 days and fulfill the goals set by the Obama Administration.

Perhaps the greatest challenge to a timely start to program expansion was the directive to pay and administer Davis-Bacon prevailing wages for all Recovery Act funds; the WAP has had a waiver of those requirements for the past 30 years. This meant a delay while the Department of Labor decided whether a new wage should be determined, and further delays as they obtained wage determinations in every county in the U.S. for a previously non-existent “Weatherization Worker” job classification. The wage determinations were not finalized until September 2010, several months after the start-up of the Recovery Act.

Since a large percentage of low-income households live in older housing stock, in many states historic preservation rules slowed the start up of ARRA weatherization due to requirements for State Historic Preservation Offices to review work on houses older than 45 years. A Prototype Programmatic Agreement, developed by the Department of Energy (DOE), in coordination with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) and the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers (NCSHPO), appears to address the concerns in a workable manner and is a major step to help enable work to move forward on these older units.

Perhaps the most disturbing characterization of WAP in the news is the perception that it is a very simple retrofit program performing isolated energy efficiency measures, a “$5 billion program to install weather-tight windows and doors” as Ms. Burke writes. Actually, windows and doors are rarely installed because they typically do not have the energy paybacks of other measures, and are often too expensive for the cost limitations of the program. Weatherization professionals use a whole house approach, where they address a home as a single energy-consuming system, rather than a loose collection of unrelated systems. Using this technique, the best combination of measures for reducing total energy consumption is tailored to each home. The process involves an energy audit, selection of measures based on energy paybacks and cost-effectiveness, installation of measures, and a post-work inspection.

This is a comprehensive approach that is considered state-of-the-art by energy efficiency experts, but misunderstood by most of the public, who have been conditioned to believe that the most heat loss in a home is through the windows and that spending $15,000 for replacements will reduce their energy bills enough to pay for the expense quickly. WAP uses energy audits that are required to account for the interaction of all proposed measures. WAP also utilizes sophisticated diagnostic equipment, such as blower doors to measure and detect air leakage, digital combustion analyzers to measure steady state efficiency and carbon monoxide, duct leakage diagnostic tools, and infrared cameras.

Along with using advanced energy audits and diagnostic equipment, the WAP has integrated many high-tech installation practices into the program, including advanced techniques for dense pack sidewall insulation, mobile home insulation, blower door guided air sealing, and electric baseload measures. There have also been major advancements addressing indoor air quality and other health and safety concerns. Taken together, the advanced diagnostic and installation procedures give taxpayers the greatest “bang for their buck” in every home weatherized through the program.

The Weatherization Assistance Program has been arguably the single major contributor to residential energy efficiency technology by developing and practicing the state-of-the-art methods that the newly emerging green retrofit industry is adopting. In many areas, utility companies have recognized this and partnered with both State and local WAP managers to enhance existing weatherization programs for the utility’s customers.

WAP has evolved to incorporate sophisticated analysis of the energy needs of a home, high tech diagnostic tools and installation techniques, and extensive training of workers to be a program with effective results and real energy savings. As the Weatherization network overcomes the barriers of ARRA implementation there are positive indications that the Obama administration goals for WAP will be met. All evidence points toward rapidly increasing expenditures and production since the last official reports from DOE in December 2009. The network is already weatherizing homes at a greater rate than any time in the history of the program, with projected production rapidly growing to a projected level of 25,000 homes per month by late spring. All levels of the WAP, from the Department of Energy to the State Grantees to the local agencies, are committed to working together to accomplish the goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. As originally projected in WAP State Plans, we believe that 600,000 homes will be weatherized using ARRA funds by March 2012.

The National Association for State Community Services Programs is a professional membership organization for the state and territorial administrators of the Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and the Department of Health and Human Services Community Services Block Grant (CSBG).

NASCSP Response to Department of Energy Office of Inspector General Special Report on Weatherization and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 21:11:00 +0000

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General Special Report OAS-RA-10-04 entitled "Progress in Implementing the Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act" is correct in asserting that the existing Weatherization network has been confronted with unprecedented challenges in implementing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) funds effectively. However, the State and local agencies of the Program are now fully ready, willing and able to meet the goals of the Obama Administration and the Department of Energy (DOE).

It is not our intention to rehash the problems and obstacles that slowed the progress of ARRA funds in the WAP, but to address concerns raised in the report and move forward constructively. While it is accurate to assert that the ramp up of expenditures and production has been slower than anticipated, this has been due largely to variables outside of the control of network providers. For instance, from late March, when the first States received their initial award, to June of 2009, States had access to just 10% of the funds, which could only be used for training, hiring and equipment purchases. States were not allowed to use funds for production purposes until the restriction was lifted in June of 2009.

Since its inception, the Weatherization Assistance Program has had a waiver from Davis-Bacon prevailing wages. The applicability of Davis-Bacon labor rates for all WAP ARRA projects posed significant planning and management challenges due to rigorous administrative requirements such as exponentially increased record keeping requirements and the introduction of weekly certified payrolls. In June 2009, the Department of Labor (DOL) decided that Davis-Bacon prevailing wages would apply to the WAP. Between June and July 2009 there was much uncertainty within the network whether and to what extent wage determinations would be made for a weatherization worker classification. In July, it was decided that a full wage determination of every county in the Nation would occur for the new weatherization worker classification. The resulting confusion during this time made Program managers wary of moving ahead with production until weatherization worker wages had been finalized. DOL finalized wage determinations for residential weatherization workers in September 2009.

Though not quite as far reaching as the Davis-Bacon requirements, another stipulation that any dwelling older than 50 years must be reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) before weatherization became another serious roadblock. Most SHPOs were not staffed or prepared for the magnitude of reviews that could be necessary, as a large number of the low-income homes eligible for weatherization are over 50 years old.

To the credit of the Department of Energy, they confronted both the problems with Davis-Bacon and Historic Preservation head on. In addition to the swift response to the Davis-Bacon issue, DOE developed, in coordination with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) and the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers (NCSHPO), a Prototype Programmatic Agreement to address historic preservation requirements for the Weatherization Assistance Program. We believe the recently released guidance is effective and addresses the concerns in a very workable manner.

Weatherization Program Managers are well aware of the increased scrutiny inherent with ARRA funds, and are working diligently to ensure both proper accountability and transparency. While the report asserts that there may be an increased possibility of wasteful, inefficient, and perhaps even abusive practices, due to an environment where there is a desire to spend WAP funds on a catch-up basis, we believe the contrary. As States and local agencies have proceeded with caution, they are now well equipped to tackle the challenge of ARRA production efficiently, properly, and with utmost accountability.

Additionally, while the weatherization of homes with ARRA funds has not been at the pace anticipated, it is important to note that homes have continued to be weatherized using regular 2009 Department of Energy, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, utility, and other funds. The WAP network is fully capable of meeting the goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and is well on the way to doing so. While there have been significant delays at all levels of the Program, these have since been ironed out.

Now that the major obstacles, such as the Davis-Bacon and Historic Preservation requirements, have been resolved, we expect the Weatherization Assistance Program will soon be back on target in meeting ARRA objectives in the very near future. NASCSP works extensively with the Department of Energy, States (our members) and the National Community Action Foundation, which represents the approximately 900 Community Action Agencies in the Weatherization network. All levels of the WAP, from the Department of Energy to the State Grantees to the local agencies, are committed to working together to accomplish the goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. We are confident that, in spite of the slow start, that the obstacles have been overcome and that production and expenditure goals will be met.

The National Association for State Community Services Programs is a professional membership organization for the state and territorial administrators of the Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and the Department of Health and Human Services Community Services Block Grant (CSBG).

$300 Million for Weatherization: President's FY 2011 Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:21:00 +0000

The President’s FY 2011 budget contains a significant increase for the Weatherization Assistance Program to $300 million. As with the 2010 allocation, there is $30 million for the continuation of the Innovations in Weatherization activity.

A relevant part of the Introduction section of the Department of Energy budget request states:

Energy Efficiency

In August 2009, President Obama said, “If we want to reduce our dependence on oil, put Americans back to work and reassert our manufacturing sector as one of the greatest in the world, we must produce the advanced, efficient vehicles of the future.” In FY 2011, the Department will promote energy efficiency in vehicles technologies, at $325 million. No less important to achieving the President’s stated ambitions is decreasing energy consumption through developing and advancing building technologies ($231 million) and industrial technologies ($100 million). Federal assistance for state-level programs, such as State Energy Program grants ($75 million, a 50 percent increase from FY 2010) and Weatherization Assistance grants ($300 million, a 43 percent increase from FY 2010), will help States and individuals take advantage of efficiency measures for buildings and homes, lower energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, and develop an ever-evolving, technically proficient workforce.

The two links below provide detail about the proposed FY 11 budget for WAP.

Source: http://www.mbe.doe.gov/budget/11budget/Content/FY2011Highlights.pdf

Details: http://www.mbe.doe.gov/budget/11budget/Content/Volume%203.pdf (p. 425) (p. 436-440)

Administration Releases $490 million in LIHEAP Emergency Funds

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 20:26:00 +0000

The Administration released $490 million of the $590.3 million available in emergency LIHEAP funds on January 20, 2010. The following is a link to the state-by-state table released by the Administration. Additional information is expected from the Administration during the week of January 25 explaining the formula allocation.

HHS State Allocations

President Obama: Insulation is Sexy!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:12:00 +0000

At an appearance today in Northern Virginia, President Obama spoke about the value and importance of home retrofits, saying "Insulation is sexy stuff. Here's what's sexy about it: saving money." The Weatherization Assistance Program is one of the tools in the arsenal of energy efficiency programs which can put Americans back to work while saving money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Vice President Biden on The Daily Show Defending Recovery Act Reporting

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:28:00 +0000

Yesterday, Vice President Biden went on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to defend the reporting and performance of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. With the Weatherization Assistance Program so much in the spotlight and jobs such a focus, this exchange was interesting and it was encouraging to see the administration stand up for its investments. Please take a moment to view below.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Joe Biden Pt. 1

www.thedailyshow.com

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Health Care Crisis

Weatherization in the News and NASCSP Response

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:19:00 +0000

You may have seen the Washington Post article from November 7th, "Painting a street green hasn't stimulated one new job"

While the article brings up valid points about the Weatherization Assistance Program, NASCSP has written a response, which can be seen below.

November 9, 2009

Dear Mr. MacGillis:

I read with great interest your article from November 7, 2009 titled “Painting a street green hasn’t stimulated one new job.” I am the Director of Weatherization Services for the National Association for State Community Services Programs (NASCSP). NASCSP is an organization that provides many functions for State Weatherization Assistance Program managers, including maintaining a comprehensive program website (www.waptac.org) , communicating with and representing members on programmatic issues, and facilitating the exchange of programmatic and residential energy efficiency best practices.

Both state and local Weatherization Program managers are frustrated that the ramp up of the Recovery Act-funded Weatherization Program has not gone exactly as planned, but we are confident that we have overcome most obstacles have and now see a rapid increase in new jobs and units weatherized with the ARRA funds.

The major obstacle that faced Weatherization Program operators was the ARRA requirement that prevailing Davis Bacon-mandated wages had to be paid to all laborers performing work. Until passage of the Recovery Act, the Weatherization Program was exempt from Davis Bacon requirements.

The new Davis Bacon requirement stalled the hiring of new workers in the following ways:

• The Department of Labor did not determine that that Davis Bacon prevailing wages would in fact apply to the Weatherization Assistance Program, and that past waivers would not be valid until June 1, 2009;
• In early July, the Department of Labor determined that a new worker classification and new wage determination would be made for residential weatherization worker since none of the existing classifications were deemed appropriate for the scope of work performed by the program workers;
• The Department of Labor conducted surveys of all Weatherization Program providers and made new wage determinations for the new classification of Weatherization Worker for all counties in the United States, which was completed by the end of August;
• The Department of Energy had to develop specific contract language relating to Davis Bacon requirements for all Weatherization Program contracts;
• Payroll systems had to be revised to be weekly payrolls (most were every two weeks or bimonthly) to conform to Davis Bacon requirements.

Weatherization Program managers are well aware of the increased scrutiny inherent with Recovery Act funds, and are working diligently to insure both proper accountability and transparency. While there is a great need and pressure to move quickly, there is also a sense of caution to make sure that funds are spent wisely and there are no future audit questions. Now that the major obstacles, such as the Davis Bacon requirements, have been worked out, we expect the Weatherization Program to be back on target towards meeting Recovery Act objectives in the very near future.

I would be happy to provide you with any additional information and serve as a future resource to you for information concerning the Weatherization Assistance Program.

Sincerely,

Bob Scott
Director of Weatherization Services
National Association for State Community Services Programs

Steven Chu: Weatherization: Saving Money by Saving Energy

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:12:00 +0000

Energy Secretary Steven Chu posted a positive story on Weatherization and Weatherization Day on the Huffington Post. Read it here

Dr. Steven Chu, distinguished scientist and co-winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics (1997), was appointed by President Obama as the 12th Secretary of Energy and sworn into office on January 21, 2009.

Dr. Chu has devoted his recent scientific career to the search for new solutions to our energy challenges and stopping global climate change – a mission he continues with even greater urgency as Secretary of Energy. He is charged with helping implement President Obama’s ambitious agenda to invest in alternative and renewable energy, end our addiction to foreign oil, address the global climate crisis and create millions of new jobs.

In announcing Dr. Chu’s selection on December 15, 2008, President Obama said, “the future of our economy and national security is inextricably linked to one challenge: energy… Steven has blazed new trails as a scientist, teacher, and administrator, and has recently led the Berkeley National Laboratory in pursuit of new alternative and renewable energies. He is uniquely suited to be our next Secretary of Energy as we make this pursuit a guiding purpose of the Department of Energy, as well as a national mission.”

Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steven-chu

Weatherization Day 2009 Gets a Boost from Federal Stimulus Money

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:07:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 30, 2009

Contact: Rebecca Stewart

rstewart@nascsp.org ▪ 202.624.7887

Weatherization Day 2009 Gets a Boost from Federal Stimulus Money

Since 1976, The U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) has been making homes of low-income families more energy efficient. To highlight the efforts across the country, Weatherization Day is celebrated every October 30. This year the program received a substantial boost from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds.

One state leading the way in weatherization is Ohio, which plans to use the $266.8 million ARRA WAP grant to increase the energy efficiency of more than 32,000 homes. In July alone Ohio weatherized 951 homes, providing such services as adding insulation, sealing leaks, and modernizing heating and cooling equipment. With ARRA funding through March 2012, Ohio estimates it will create 590 new jobs and retain 487.

In New Mexico, it is estimated that at least 2,300 homes will be weatherized every year for the next 3 years using the state’s $26 million ARRA WAP funds. Weatherization saves an average of 32% in gas space heating.

In recognition of National Weatherization Day, Matt Rogers, Senior Advisor to Energy Secretary Steven Chu for Recovery Act Implementation, recorded the following video: http://vimeo.com/7314879. In addition to encouraging all Americans to install energy efficiency measures in their own homes, he emphasizes the energy and cost benefits of improved energy efficiency and he expresses appreciation to the nation's weatherization network for its past accomplishments and its continued commitment to serving low-income citizens. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Weatherization Assistance Program will continue to grow and deliver results for American families across the country.

WAP was awarded $5 billion through the 2009 ARRA. To participate, homeowners must have a maximum income of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, and can use up to $6,500 for energy efficiency upgrades to their home.

The Weatherization Assistance Program is operated in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Native American tribes, and U.S. Territories. Funds are used to improve the energy efficiency of low-income homes using the most advanced technologies and testing. Since the inception of the WAP, over 6.2 million homes have been weatherized with DOE funds.

For more information about the Weatherization Assistance Program, visit www.waptac.org or www.eere.doe.gov.

Happy Weatherization Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:14:00 +0000

Today is 2009 National Weatherization Day! What is your state or local agency doing to celebrate?

In recognition of National Weatherization Day on October 30th, Matt Rogers, Senior Advisor to Energy Secretary Steven Chu for Recovery Act Implementation, recorded the following video. In the video, he emphasizes the energy and cost benefits of improved energy efficiency - encouraging all Americans to install enery efficiency measures in their own homes - and he expresses appreciation to the nation's weatherization network for its past accomplishments and its continued commitment to serving low-income citizens. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Weatherization Assistance Program will continue to grow and deliver results for American families across the country. For more information about how to save energy in your home, visit energysavers.gov.

National Weatherization Day Message from Senior Advisor Matt Rogers from U.S. Department of Energy on Vimeo.

Video: Weatherization in North Carolina

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:03:00 +0000

Sen. Brown touts weatherization programs to boost Ohio economy

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:00:00 +0000

April 16, 2009

Sen. Brown touts weatherization programs to boost Ohio economy

BY BRIAN GADD
For The Advocate

ZANESVILLE -- U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown touted projected job creation from the federal stimulus for weatherization assistance programs Wednesday.

Brown hosted a roundtable discussion Wednesday at the Muskingum Economic Opportunity Action Group in Zanesville.

Ohio is slated to receive $267 million to help needy families make insulation and other energy efficiency improvements in the face of rising utility costs.

"The weatherization program employs Ohio workers, using Ohio products, to lower energy costs of our state's homeowners," Brown said. "This program is not just about reducing energy use -- it's about job creation and economic development in the region."

Brown said as many as 600 new jobs could be created as community action agencies hire more weatherization technicians, and the number of low-income and elderly residents aided by the program could be doubled, tripled or even quadrupled in coming years.

Blown-in and rolled insulation will be bought from Ohio companies in places like Newark, and homeowners could receive help with more energy-efficient windows, hot-water heaters and furnaces.

Owens Corning's Newark plant specializes in home insulation.

Brown added that the savings in utility costs could lead to a decline in demand for million of barrels of foreign oil every year.

Job creation was touted in the form of one of the Muskingum action group's newest hires, Rick Smith, of Zanesville, who has been on the job as a weatherization tech for the past two months.

Smith said he was grateful for the opportunity to secure employment after he lost his job when Hartstone Pottery in Zanesville closed.

Brown also highlighted training opportunities available to Ohioans seeking to become certified in weatherization techniques. Five weatherization training centers are located across Ohio -- in Dayton, Athens, Akron, Fremont and Newark.

Tom Calhoun, housing programs manager of the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development in Athens, said his agency recently hired more than 100 new workers and expects the weatherization funds passed by the economic recovery legislation to increase his total work force by another 100 employees.

"We will be investing $41 million in Southeastern Ohio, provide weatherization to 4,000 homes, train workers, purchase trucks and use local products," Calhoun said. "I'm excited about this stimulus. It is going to be a good thing, a blessing for people."

President Barack Obama has a goal of providing weatherization assistance to 1 million homeowners a year, after the program reached 6.2 million homes during the past 35 years.

WAP Mentions in Blogs

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Below are some recent mentions of WAP in the blogosphere:

Win-Win-Win Weatherization
True Blue Natural Gas Blog from the American Gas Association

Weatherization Assistance Program
The Quotidian Bleat

Need Help Weatherizing your House?
Boots on the Roof: Training for the Wind and Solar Energy Industry

Triple Play: Greenhouse Gas Reductions, Energy Conservation, and Green Jobs Bill Passes the Legislature (WA)
Senate Democrats Blog, Washington State

Take Advantage of the Government's Weatherization Assistance Program
Planet Green

Preserving Old Homes with Stimulus Money?
Old House Web, Ideas & Advice for Old House Enthusiasts

This Old Wasteful House
New York Times Op-Ed

Apartment Industry Ready to See Green Stimulus Money Put to Use
Multi-Family Executive Online

Construction Workers on "Stimulus" Projects will Receive Prevailing Wages
Sunburst Software Solutions, Inc. Blog

Weatherization Program Could Help Safeguard Houses Against Disasters
Disaster Safety Blog

Home Insulation Program Takes Heat
Stateline.org

Senator Rockefeller Visits Martinsburg Weatherization Site

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 20:53:00 +0000

~Under the Economic Recovery Package, more than 3,000 additional homes will be weatherized and up to 125 new jobs will be created~

Washington, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV visited the home of Martinsburg resident, David Babcock, on Friday, March 20, 2009. (Picture above is Senator Rockefeller talking to Eastern West Virginia CAA Weatherization Coordinator Bob Wagner.)

In September 2008, the Eastern West Virginia Community Action Agency weatherized Babcock’s house - replacing his furnace, sealing his ductwork, and insulating his attic. Under the Economic Recovery Package, more than 3,000 additional homes will be weatherized and as many as 125 new jobs will be created.

“I was so thankful to be invited into David’s house to see the great work of the Eastern West Virginia Community Action Agency,” said Senator Rockefeller. “The weatherization program is making an impact in West Virginia, creating new jobs across the state while improving the energy efficiency of homes and reducing utility bills.”

West Virginia is estimated to receive $70 million, with $37.5 million for weatherization and $32.7 million for the State Energy Program. The program offers rebates to consumers for home energy audits and other energy savings improvements.

“It was an honor to show Mr. Babcock’s home to Senator Rockefeller, so he could see firsthand the good work we are doing to weatherize homes in West Virginia,” said Bob Wagner, the weatherization coordinator for Eastern West Virginia Community Action. “This money secured in the stimulus package will go toward helping people lower their energy costs, and create local jobs right here at home.”

“It was a real thrill to have Senator Rockefeller into my home to witness what the weatherization team can accomplish. This weatherization program has made a significant difference in my monthly bills—I save over 50% of the estimated utility costs. I hope people will reach out and take advantage of the program—it’s a good thing and it’s green,” said David Babcock, a Martinsburg resident who opened his home to Senator Rockefeller on Friday.

Background

Community Action Agencies across West Virginia are accepting weatherization applications. The weatherization process includes: checking and repairing or replacing heating systems, insulating attics and sidewalls, sealing air leaks, weatherstripping and/or replacing door and windows, and insulating hot water heaters and pipes.

This program is free if you meet annual low income guidelines, and have not been weatherized since September 30, 1994.

Supplemental Social Security (SSI) income automatically qualifies. Income guidelines examples (annual gross income from all household income sources):

Persons in House Income NOT Exceeding

1 $21,660

2 $29,140

3 $36,620

4 $44,100

5 $51,580

6 $59,060

For a list of contacts for all of West Virginia’s Community Action Agencies, visit: http://wvcommunityactionpartnership.org/wvcapagencies.html.

Stimulus Jobs Already Starting Before Money Arrives

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 14:15:00 +0000

March 23, 2009, By GARY CHITTIM / KING 5 News

BURIEN, Wash. – Federal stimulus checks haven’t arrived in Washington state yet, but some agencies aren’t waiting around. They’re already ramping up, and it’s having an economic effect.

A month ago, his Ben Uskoski’s contracting business was tanking and he had to make a decision.

"I was an electrician before I went out on my own so I said, ‘I can do electrical work,’” said Uskoski.

That proved to be the right decision because Michael Kim of Advance Energy Management just happened to need electricians -- a lot of them.

"Put an ad out on Craigslist and literally got bombarded with phone calls in the first couple of hours,” said Kim.

One of the first was Uskoski and the stimulus trigger was pulled.

Kim needed 23 electricians to weatherize a low income housing apartment complex in South King County. Usoski called everyone he knew and 23 electricians suddenly went from laid off to gainfully employed, installing new energy efficient light fixtures and bathroom fans in the sprawling complex.

That's when he gave Platt Electric down in Tacoma a call.

"He asked me if I was sitting down, then when this first came up and just the magnitude of the order was phenomenal,” said Doug Lind of Platt Electric.

Platt suddenly had enough demand during an economic downturn keep his workers busy and prevent any more layoffs.

It all started with a King County Housing Authority weatherization project that is funded by federal stimulus dollars that aren't expected until next month, but are already putting food some local tables.

But this is a very small example. It will be some time before we see how it plays out on a much grander national scale.

View video of this report here: http://www.king5.com/video/index.html?nvid=344809&shu=1

Changes to WAP due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:19:00 +0000

Some significant changes to the weatherization program have been made due to recently enacted legislation:

Income Guidelines: These have been increased from 150% 200% of the federal poverty level, as below:

Contiguous U.S. Grantees, by size of family unit:
1 - $21,660
2 - $29,140
3 - $36,620
4 - $44,100
5 - $51,580
6 - $59,060
7 - $66,540
8 - $74,020
Each additional member add: $7,480

For Alaska:
1 - $27,060
2 - $36,420
3 - $45,780
4 - $55,140
5 - $64,500
6 - $73,860
7 - $83,220
8 - $92,580
Each additional member add: $9,360

For Hawaii:
1 - $24,920
2 - $33,520
3 - $42,120
4 - $50,720
5 - $59,320
6 - $67,920
7 - $76,520
8 - $85,120
Each additional member add: $8,600

Cost Per Unit Average: The allowable DOE funds average to be used per home has been increased to $6,500 to accommodate the decreased ability to leverage funds due to the large increase in DOE funds.

Training and Technical Assistance: The percentage of funds available for training and technical assistance activities has been increased from 10% to 20%.

Re-Weatherization Date: The date for re-weatherization has been changed to September 30, 1994, in order to change the underlying law.

Prevailing Wage: Funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are subject to the requirements and reporting of prevailing wage regulations. It is unclear what this will entail at this time.

All of these changes, with the exception of Prevailing Wage, are applicable to all funds from Program Year 2009 and beyond.

We will continue to update you with any further clarifications or changes.

We're back!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:51:00 +0000

Hello all,

Sorry for the interruption in posting for the last few months. This was due to some personnel changes, and posting will resume.

There have been many updates to the program since the hiatus.

1) Continuing Resolution: Congress passed a Continuing Resolution on September 24, 2008 in order to avoid confrontations with President Bush over the FY 2009 Budget. The Resolution ran until March 6, 2009 and was extended to March 11, 2009. It provided $250 million in funding for the WAP.

2) American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA): This $787.2 billion economic stimulus package was signed into law by President Barack Obama on February 17, 2009. The Act contains $5 billion in funding for the WAP, to be spent over a 3-year time frame.

3) FY 2009 Omnibus: The nine-bill $410 billion Omnibus Bill was signed into law on March 11, 2009. The Bill contains an additional $300 million for WAP.

More information and updates, as well as news regarding the implementation of the ARRA to follow.

Senate Appropriations Committee Adds $1 Billion Supplemental to LIHEAP for FY 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 16 May 2008 12:44:00 +0000

The Senate Appropriations Committee yesterday added $1 billion to LIHEAP for FY 2008. The funds would be split $500 million for the base formula and $500 million for the contingency funds with the condition that the contingency funds would be released within 30 days and allocated by the Tier 1 formula.

This is very good news and increases the possibility that funding for FY 08 could be significantly increases. The additional funding was included on 20-9 vote.

Note: this is not a done deal. It still has to pass the House and be approved by the President.

New Course Assists Low Income Students, Trains “Green Collar” Workforce

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:07:00 +0000

Vermont Technical College, Agency of Human Services' Office of Economic Opportunity Announce Creation of Certified Energy Audior Program

Waterbury, Vt—The Vermont Agency of Human Services’ Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) and Vermont Technical College (VTC) today announced a new collaborative effort to educate students about the emerging practice of energy auditing.

The Certified Energy Auditor Program will be offered through VTC’s Center for Sustainable Practices, and will lead to certification in building and heating systems analysis from the nationally recognized Buildings Performance Institute.

Twelve students, including two low income Vermonters enrolled in OEO’s Micro Business program, will participate in the summer course, which begins on May 19th, 2008. VTC will enroll students who are seeking degrees, beyond the certification, in Sustainable Design and Technology, Construction Practice and Management, and Architectural Building Engineering Technology.

After completing a traditional classroom experience, students will be placed in paid internships with local Weatherization Programs administered by Vermont’s five Community Action Agencies, and will receive their certification after the completion of a successful field examination.

“The need for energy auditors and heating efficiency contractors is growing rapidly, both in Vermont and across the nation,” noted Cynthia D. LaWare, Secretary of the Agency of Human Services. “The Agency of Human Services and our OEO are pleased to partner with VTC in developing this new green economy workforce, which will help low income Vermonters take advantage of the opportunities available in this emerging field.”

“We are proud to collaborate with the Agency in this exciting venture, and are pleased that Vermont Tech will be a leader in training the ‘green collar workforce’ for Vermont’s future,” added VTC President, Dr. Ty Handy.

VTC currently enrolls 1,556 students, approximately 90 percent of whom are Vermonters. 87 percent of last year’s graduates found jobs in Vermont, and the school has long boasted a 98 percent job placement rate nationwide.

The OEO is a division of the Agency of Human Services’ Department for Children and Families, with a mission to help Vermonters become more self sufficient and to support low income residents as they move out of poverty. The OEO, working in partnership with the five Community Action Agencies, served more than 44,000 low income Vermonters in 2007.

WAP and the Green Workforce

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:14:00 +0000

On the weekend of April 4 – 6, over a thousand energy efficiency and antipoverty advocates joined together in Memphis, Tennessee for Green for All's (http://www.greenforall.org/) "Dream Reborn" conference to discuss ways to “bring jobs, justice, wealth and health” to low income communities and share the many new programs and projects underway designed to move out individuals of poverty through environmentally sustainable, living wage jobs.

Sessions included an overview and formal definition of the national green jobs movement and key policy issues. Attendees also learned about successful green-collar job training programs already taking place across the nation including the Bronx Environmental Stewardship Training Program, Greencorps Chicago, and Solar Richmond which offer a range of training and job placement options to disadvantaged individuals.

During this conference, NASCSP staff met with individuals from several key "green workforce" organizations to discuss areas of potential collaboration between the Weatherization Assistance Program and other environmentally beneficial initiatives. Such partnership seems natural. After all, WAP was green before green was cool, generating 45 green jobs for every $1 million invested in the Program.

In addition to working towards national partnerships we have also continued to research green workforce programs currently taking place across the nation. In order to better understand this movement it helps to recognize that it is the product of several simultaneous movements through several major organizations including environmentalists, unions, and antipoverty groups.

Perhaps the clearest guidelines for defining green collar jobs have been offered by Green for All (http://www.greenforall.org/resources/green-collar-jobs-overview).

Based upon the criteria offered by Green for All, NASCSP is currently conducting a formalized survey to learn what jobs taking place through assistance from the Weatherization Assistance Program and Community Services Block Grant Programs.

We encourage you to visit
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=PMKlt_2f2dWW_2f1iK_2fLqfvj_2bA_3d_3d and complete this form. A summary of responses will be available on the NASCSP website in the near future.

For additional information on the movement, visit:

Greener Pathways: Jobs and Workforce Development in the Clean Energy Economy -
http://www.cows.org/greenerpathways/

Green-Collar Jobs in America's Cities: Building Pathways Out of Poverty and Careers in the Clean Energy Economy -
http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2008/03/green_collar_jobs.html

Legislative Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:23:00 +0000

NASCSP has submitted it's 2008 testimony to the Senate Energy and Water Appropriation Subcommittee requesting $300 million in WAP and $75 million in SEP. These figures were echoed by several national organizations like the Alliance to Save Energy, ACEEE, NASEO and others. We expect the Subcommittee to mark-up their bill sometime in late May or early June. There has been no word from the House Subcommittee about their mark up of this year's bill, although we still expect their actions to be completed by early May.

There has been a lot of activity lately surrounding a possible supplemental Appropriations package that will include many components of the economic stimulation package that were not included in the first one (remember your $300 to $600 tax rebate). NASCSP has been promoting WAP as a viable green jobs initiative as well as a consumer of large ticket purchases in the economy (like trucks, equipment, appliances, etc.). This has been supported by many other national organizations for including WAP in the bill. We have been unable to determine whether this argument will result in additional funding for WAP. The debates are taking place now and if a bill is actually introduced, it is expected within the month.

There have been several meetings with national organizations about the pending "cap and trade" legislation being considered for the Senate floor.

There are a couple of versions being circulated to help the U.S. begin to seriously address its carbon emissions and global environmental impact.

"Cap and trade" legislation comes with a significant cost to all consumers - but a major impact on low-income families who must absorb the price increases on most commodities within their budgets. The legislation includes remedies for holding the low-income harmless from these increases through bill payment like LIHEAP, energy efficiency like WAP, and price equity like rebates on commodity purchases. NASCSP is working with many organizations to address WAP's role in this legislation. While it is too early to tell how the final bill will look, there is good support for WAP to be included as one of the remedies to help low-income families address their increased energy costs and at huge funding levels in the out years based on carbon credit auctions.

As you can see, there is a lot of ground work taking place during this time that we hope will secure the future of WAP. As always, we will keep you informed as we learn more.

Updated Savings and Energy Data

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 18:29:00 +0000

Following is the basic data update for the Weatherization Assistance Program based on the Annual Energy Outlook for 2008 and the first-year energy savings based on the February 2008 Short Term Energy Outlook.

Please feel free to share these numbers with all interested parties.

Ø The average first-year savings based on the current Short Term Energy Outlook for 2008 in current dollars is now $413.

Ø The estimated average energy benefit in 2006 dollars over the life of the measures is $5,274.

Ø The estimated average cost per unit in 2006 dollars is $3,204.

Ø The benefit/cost ratio is 1.65.

Ø The estimated average value of non-energy benefits in 2006 dollars is $3,446.

Ø The societal benefit/cost ration is 2.72

Legislative Update

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:59:00 +0000

A few of you have requested that we provide more frequent updates on the Appropriations process so you can stay abreast of the most recent events.

To that end we will try to give updates every two weeks or more frequently as mark ups and votes take place.

As of now negotiations are still taking place within the Senate and House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittees. Yesterday, Assistant Secretary Karsner testified at the Senate hearing and was asked why WAP was zeroed out this year. His response was the same as the one he gave in the House Subcommittee hearing two weeks ago. He contends the WAP no longer belongs within the EERE portfolio. He also stated that the Program only has a 1.5 return on investment and that this pales in comparison to the return on investment of the research and development projects.

Meetings have occurred between the WAP advocates and many staff offices in both the House and Senate. The message has been consistent in each of these meetings - the WAP is cost effective, it is meeting and exceeding its public purpose, it belongs in DOE, and it deserves to have its funding restored and increased if possible. NASCSP has provided its testimony in support of the WAP to the House Subcommittee and will make its submission to the Senate within the next few days.

Mark up of the House and Senate Energy and Water bills will take soon. We expect the House mark-up to be completed by the end of April. The Senate bill should be marked up by late May or early June. Of course these are mere projections. The mark-up process is still a little confusing because of the huge fund shortages with these bills as compared to the amount being requested (at least $1 billion but as high as $6 to $7 billion if the new energy initiatives in the 2007 Energy Bill are included).

It is still too early to predict where WAP funding will finally settle. We are hoping that last year's level of $227 million can be attained.

Advocates are asking for $300 million in 2009 with the chance of reaching figures close to $500 million through stimulus packages being considered this summer. The 2009 authorization level for WAP is $900 million.

We have all heard the phrase "times are tough this year." Well here it is again. Times are tough this year. And DOE zeroing out the Program has made things more difficult because they continue to defend that position with Congressional members. As always, we will keep you informed as we learn more.

Representative Solis Express Support for Weatherization, LIHEAP

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 20:29:00 +0000

The attached video clip shows Representative Solis's opening statements at the Energy and Commerce Hearing with Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman. During the hearning, Solis asks that the department not just give hope but provide funds for important programs like LIHEAP and weatherization efforts that help reduce the cost of energy for working Californians.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0T7Ljktx6I

We thank Representative Solis for her continued support of our program during this difficult budget season!