A weatherization manual for LIHEAP policy makers and program administrators

Abstract

This manual was developed to provide a broad overview of innovative and cost effective weatherization programming activities that are funded by Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) block grant funds.Since the inception of the federal block grant system in the early 1980's, states have had flexibility in how to utilize the federal funds allocated. With the LIHEAP funds, states were allowed to allocate up to 15 percent (now up to 25 percent with a waiver) of their total state allocation to weatherization and other energy-related home repairs, including energy conservation activities.The goal of this document is to provide state LIHEAP administrators with a review of the current "world of weatherization," and to highlight several "showcase" programs that are presently operating innovatively with LIHEAP dollars. In many of the showcase examples, state and local administrators are coordinating the LIHEAP funds in creative and productive ways with the U.S.Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program's funding, and with a variety of other federal, state, and utility company resources. This manual incorporates an extensive glossary, informative appendices and bibliography so that any LIHEAP administrator can easily familiarize him/herself with the most innovative weatherization programs across the country, plus have ready access to information about contact persons.