Weatherization Assistance Program

WAP Background

The United States Department of Energy’s (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) was created in 1976 to assist low-income families who lacked resources to invest in energy efficiency. West Virginia Community Advancement and Development also operates the WAP through the Low-Income and Human Services (HHS) following DOE WAP guidelines.

The WAP mission is to reduce energy costs for low-income families, particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities, and children, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety. WAP is operated in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Native American tribes and U.S. Territories. Weatherization services in West Virginia are provided through the Community Action Partnership network, consisting of 12 agencies throughout the state and provide services in all 55 counties.

Benefits of WAP

The WAP gives priority to identifying and providing weatherization assistance to the elderly or persons with disabilities, households with children, households with a high-energy burden, and households identified as high energy users. WV WAP also operates the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) which provides emergency heat repair and replacement, and works with utility companies throughout the state to provide services to reduce consumers’ energy burden.

Funding for WAP

Amount: The DOE grant is a three-year grant, with funds received annually. The amount awarded to WV WAP varies depending on appropriations by the United States Congress. For Program Year 2020, WV WAP received $3,947,952. The LIHEAP Grant is received annually, and the amount varies depending on WV Department of Health and Human Resources allocation received from HHS. For Program Year 2020, WV WAP received $4,454,927.

Source of Funds:

• Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Energy
• CFDA Number and Name: 81.402 – Weatherization Assistance for Low-Income Persons
• Federal Awarding Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• CFDA Number and Name: 93.568 – Low-Income Home and Energy Assistance

Funding Cycle: DOE WAP grants run July 1 through June 30. DHHR LIHEAP grants run October 1 through September 30.

Authorizing Legislation/Statute: N/A