Southwestern Community Services

Energy Conservation

SCS Energy Conservation consists of the Weatherization Assistance Program, the utility-managed Home Assistance Program, and the LIHEAP Building Weatherization Program.

The Energy Conservation Program is designed to help reduce heating and other energy costs for income-eligible households by improving living conditions and providing warmer, safer, and more comfortable homes. The aim is to lower energy costs and increase energy efficiency.

Eligibility

Initial eligibility for energy conservation services is determined in three steps: reviewing eligibility using the Energy Services (fuel & electric assistance) application, review of any previous conservation services at the residence where services are being requested and determining building eligibility of the home following a site visit or audit.

Priority is given to households with a high energy burden, households with small children, seniors, or persons with disabilities, and/or homeowners in need of heating system repair or replacement.

To be considered eligible for the Energy Conservation programs, all potential participants must begin by applying with the Fuel Assistance program. A Fuel Assistance application acts as our income eligibility screening tool and is required to have on file. This combined application allows applicants to apply for the benefits of all three programs with ease.

Renters must have landlord approval. 

What to Expect

Once the applicant is determined income eligible, the home is placed on the waiting list. A team member will contact applicants as availability opens to schedule an initial inspection by one of our certified energy auditors. The results of the assessment will determine what energy improvements and health and safety measures are needed.

The energy auditor will write up a job performance work order and assign the work to a professional sub-contractor. After each job is completed, it is inspected and tested again by a certified Quality Control Inspector.

As part of the process, the energy auditor works closely with each household. The auditor will discuss what work is to be done on the home and what results might be achieved. Suggestions will also be offered on how to continue achieving energy savings by including energy conservation actions throughout the home.

Other Information

Conservation measures may include the following:

  • Attic, wall, and floor insulation
  • Use of air-sealing materials, such as caulking, weather stripping, door sweeps, and glass replacement, to stop air infiltration
  • Installation of appropriate ventilation
  • Lighting and water improvements
  • Turning and/or cleaning heating systems
  • Repair/replacement of inoperable and unsafe heating systems and water heating equipment

There is a waiting list for the program and on average, we complete 50 to 75 homes each year. Due to high demand, you may need to wait longer than one year for an energy audit. To discuss heat system repair or replacement, please call the Energy Conservation Office Program Assistant at 603.719.4159

 

Heating Repair & Replacement Program

The Heating Repair and Replacement Program can help clients repair or replace their heating systems.

Recipients must be income-eligible and receiving fuel assistance in order to qualify for HRRP.

Assistance for heating replacement is based on the availability of funds.

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