Weatherization

The Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) enables low-income individuals and families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy- efficient. Needy residents benefit from the improved energy performance in their houses or apartments; this is accomplished by use of the most advanced technologies and testing protocols available in the housing industry.

The U.S. DOE provides funding for WAP to the states and territories of the U.S., as well as Native American tribal governments. In turn, these governments manage the day-to-day details of the program and fund a network of local community action agencies, nonprofit organizations and local governments that provide these weatherization services to those who require them.

Families who receive these weatherization benefits see their annual energy bills reduced by an average of about $437, depending on fuel prices. Weatherization services are long-lived and add up over time to substantial benefits not only for weatherization clients but for the community as a whole. They also help reduce dependency on state and federal home heating assistance programs.

WAP services include:

• heat loss analysis audits;
• storm windows;
• oil burner efficiency testing and modifications;
• other energy conservation services

New Opportunities Inc.'s service region includes both the Naugatuck Valley and Greater Danbury areas. For more information, call (203) 575-4215 or email Energy [at] NewOpportunitiesInc [dot] org (subject: Weatherization Inquiry from Website) .