Arizona Among First States to Receive Stimulus Funds for Weatherization Program

Arizona Among First States to Receive Stimulus Funds for Weatherization Program

Governor Jan Brewer today announced the State's plan for Weatherization Assistance has been approved by the U.S. Department of Energy to benefit Arizonans as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This means 40 percent ($22.8 million) of Arizona's $57 million program is on its way to the State's Energy Office at the Arizona Department of Commerce.

"The timing is tremendous for both the workers and the citizens that will benefit," said Governor Brewer. "Being among the first means we get a jump start on putting Arizonans back to work, and it comes at a time when consumers really need the help with summer cooling bills."

In the funding announcement today, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said, "This investment will save money for hardworking families while creating jobs, reducing pollution, and moving us toward energy independence."

Arizona was the first state to submit its application for the Weatherization Assistance Program to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) on April 28. The program helps low-income families and individuals decrease their monthly utility bills by identifying energy efficiency improvements and then
making necessary repairs. The income requirement to receive funding from this program includes households at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Under the program, the maximum repair allowed per household has been increased from $2,500 to $6,500. After demonstration of successful implementation of the plan, Arizona will receive more than $28 million in additional funding, for a total of more than $57 million.

Applications are taken at the community level by the provider partner organizations listed below.

The objective of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) is to stimulate private investment, create jobs and speed economic recovery. Two other energy applications are in process.

DOE will review Arizona's State Energy Program application within the next 60-90 days. It would bring an additional $55.4 million in ARRA funding to Arizona. This would enhance and expand the State Energy Program, which has been in existence for 30 years, focused on energy efficiency and
renewable energy programs and projects. After demonstration of successful implementation of the plan, Arizona will receive more than $28 million in additional funding, for a total of more than $57 million.

The State's application deadline for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program was recently extended until June 25. EECBG provides local governments, Indian tribes, and other entities with funding to implement energy efficiency projects designed to reduce energy usage.

Eligible projects include renewable energy installations on public buildings, improved traffic signals and street lighting, and other public improvement projects.

Governor Brewer's Office provides updates on Arizona's ARRA applications and programs at www.azrecovery.gov.

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