Larson: Connecticut to Receive Recovery Act Funding for Weatherization Programs

Larson: Connecticut to Receive Recovery Act Funding for Weatherization Programs

Washington D.C. - U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) announced that the State of Connecticut will receive $25 million of Recovery Act funding for Weatherization Programs today. In all, Connecticut will receive over $64 million in funding to support weatherization assistance programs throughout the state.

"Investing in Weatherization Assistance is one of the best ways to get money to the families that need it the most.  This funding will help families lower their energy bills, it will put hardworking Americans back to work, help the environment, and it will put us on a path towards greater energy independence.  As part of our American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, this money will offer short term help to Americans who have lost their job or are having trouble making ends meet, and long term solutions to end our dependence on foreign oil."

Background:

Connecticut will be awarded $25,724,201 in Recovery Act funds to weatherize approximately 7,400 homes and re-weatherize an additional 100 homes over the three-year grant period. The State Department of Social Services administers the Weatherization Program, which assists low-income persons in minimizing energy-related costs and fuel usage in their residences.

Every home under the program is checked for various health and safety measures and receives an energy audit to determine the most cost-effective weatherization activities for that home.  Some of the most common weatherization activities include insulation throughout the home, air-sealing, and replacing windows and doors.

After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive the final $32 million of the weatherization program funding. Earlier in the year, Connecticut received approximately $7 million dollars in initial weatherization funding.