Assistance available for home weatherization

After this arctic blast of 2010, Oklahomans will soon be finding large bills in their mailboxes.

These increases mean hardships for the following month’s budget. However, there is hope.

As a part of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program, Community Action Agency of Oklahoma provides financial and labor assistance to homeowners and renters.

Since heating and cooling account for 50 to 70 percent of the energy used in a typical American home, according to the DOE, the free weatherization program lowers energy bills.

For instance, if a family of three makes less than $36,620 per year, that family qualifies for several thousands of dollars worth of weatherization.

Community Action will assess the home and determine what improvements need to be made. Some examples are better insulation, windows and window frames.

Community Action has an average expenditure limit of $6,500 per home at no cost to the homeowner or renter.

To find out more information, visit caaofokc.com or eere.energy.gov, or call 405-297-2846.

—Brandon Isaak
Green Task Force Chairperson