Texas to Receive More Than $500 Million for Energy Efficiency

Texas is in line to receive more than a half-billion dollars in federal funding to improve energy efficiency and encourage renewable energy projects according to the Obama Administration.

Approximately $327 million of the funds will be used for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). The WAP is designed to help low-income customers control their energy costs through the installation of weatherization materials and consumer education. The weatherization plan will allow up to $6,500 per home for improvements such as insulation, sealing leaks and modernizing heating and air conditioning equipment.

The remainder of the funds, nearly $220 million, will be headed for the State Energy Program to promote the use of efficient appliances and alternative power. According to a White House statement, funding through the State Energy Program will be available through rebates to consumers for home energy audits, development of renewable energy projects and alternative fuels and the purchase of Energy Star products. Through the energy program, state and local governments will also be able to seek credits for efficiency upgrades to buildings.

This announcement is significant because it will play an important role in the efforts that the state
of Texas is making to adjust their energy-using habits to save money and reduce carbon emissions.

For more information contact Meredith Armstrong marmstrong@dallaschamber.org.