Weatherization program helps Delaware homeowners

It’s time for Delawareans to prepare their homes for winter weather. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control offers the Weatherization Assistance Program at no cost to qualified low-income families to reduce energy costs.

Before receiving a free energy audit, DNREC encourages Delaware homeowners and renters to review the eligibility guidelines at de.gov. An auditor will determine the services to improve the homes’ energy efficiency. Typical services include air sealing, insulation, heating system repair, lighting upgrades and minor repairs that are necessary to complete energy-saving measures.

Last year, 195 Delawareans benefited from this program, with an average estimated savings of $283 per home per year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

The program will now be provided throughout Delaware by Energy Coordinating Agency, which had previously contracted to provide services to 200 homes in New Castle County. Following a recent state competitive bidding process, ECA is contracted to weatherize an additional 200 homes each year in Kent and Sussex counties, and at the start of its contract, has a client waiting list with 100 potential homes. ECA will use two subtractors, Eleventh House Solutions and HELP Initiative, to provide administrative functions.

People seeking more information about receiving weatherization services anywhere in the state can call 302-504-6111 or go to ecasavesenergy.org.