For nearly 50 years, the Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) has been transforming the homes and lives of low-income families by improving energy efficiency. Since its inception, WAP has helped more than 7 million families lower their utility bills, live in safer and healthier homes, and reduce their overall energy burden.

But weatherization isn’t just a social good—it’s a critical energy efficiency policy tool that benefits households, utilities, and the broader energy system. As Congress debates the Weatherization Enhancement & Readiness Act, it’s an important time to recognize why federal investment in energy efficiency matters and how it strengthens the energy economy.

Why Weatherization is a Key Federal Energy Efficiency Strategy

Low-income households spend an average of 8.6% of their income on energy bills, nearly three times the burden of non-low-income households. High energy costs often force families to choose between necessities like food, healthcare, and rent.

Weatherization addresses this by increasing energy efficiency, cutting household utility bills, and reducing overall energy demand on the grid.

For example, households receiving WAP services save an average of $372 annually—real, tangible savings that improve affordability while also enhancing grid reliability and reducing emissions. Energy efficiency policies like WAP are an essential complement to clean energy deployment, as they ensure that every dollar spent on power generation goes further.

How to Apply for WAP Assistance

For households interested in applying for WAP, the process varies by state. Here’s how it generally works:

• Submit an application: Check state, tribal, or territory websites to find information on how to apply. Some states require applicants to first qualify for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
• Receive a no-cost energy audit: If approved, an energy auditor will evaluate the home and determine the most cost-effective weatherization measures.
• Weatherization upgrades are completed: A licensed, WAP-approved contractor will install the recommended energy efficiency improvements at no cost to the household.

Challenges Hindering Weatherization Efforts

Despite its success, WAP faces several barriers that limit its impact:

• Insufficient Funding: The program’s average cost per unit (ACPU) determines the level of weatherization services a home can receive. However, the ACPU has not kept pace with rising material and labor costs, limiting the scope of energy efficiency upgrades and making it difficult to retain a skilled workforce.
• Home Condition Deferrals: Many homes that would benefit most from WAP are ineligible due to structural issues, plumbing problems, or safety hazards. Without additional resources to address these barriers, low-income families remain locked out of the program, missing the opportunity for critical energy-saving upgrades.

The Weatherization Enhancement & Readiness Act: A Federal Solution

Now before Congress, the Weatherization Enhancement & Readiness Act aims to strengthen and expand WAP, ensuring more households can benefit from energy efficiency improvements.

This bipartisan bill, introduced by Paul D. Tonko (D-NY-20), a member of the Alliance’s Honorary Board of Advisors, along with Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-9), Josh Riley (D-NY-19), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), and James Moylan (R-GU), would:

• Reauthorize WAP through FY2030, ensuring continued support for families in need.
• Increase the ACPU from $6,500 to $12,000, allowing for deeper, more effective weatherization services and supporting competitive wages for skilled workers.
• Create a Weatherization Readiness Program to address structural and safety barriers that currently prevent homes from qualifying for WAP.
• Allocate $50 million annually through FY2030 to help households qualify for weatherization assistance.

Why Federal Energy Efficiency Education Matters

Federal support for weatherization is a direct investment in energy efficiency—one that benefits homeowners, businesses, and the grid.

By reducing energy consumption in homes, we lower overall demand, ease pressure on utilities, and create a more resilient energy system. Programs like WAP also drive job creation in the energy efficiency sector, ensuring a skilled workforce that can support long-term energy savings and decarbonization goals.

Final Thoughts

As the federal government considers expanding and improving WAP, it’s critical for policymakers, industry leaders, and advocates to recognize the central role energy efficiency plays in both cost savings and decarbonization efforts. Investing in weatherization isn’t just about individual homes—it’s about creating a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable energy future.

As a leader in energy efficiency advocacy, the Alliance to Save Energy is committed to educating policymakers and advocating for strong federal energy efficiency policies that deliver real benefits to businesses, households, and the energy economy.

Expanding weatherization means:

• Lower energy costs for vulnerable families
• A more efficient and sustainable housing stock
• Reduced strain on the energy grid and improved reliability
• Workforce development and job growth in energy efficiency fields