Kansas to receive $94.7 million for energy efficiency and weatherization

April 8, 2009

The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is providing nearly $8 billion for energy-efficiency efforts nationwide, with hopes to create 100,000 jobs and cut energy bills for families

It was announced in March that Kansas would receive $94,725,771 in weatherization and energy-efficiency funding. $56,441,771 is earmarked for weatherizing homes, including adding more insulation, sealing leaks and modernizing heating and air conditioning equipment, which will pay for itself many times over.

The Weatherization Assistance Program will allow an average investment of up to $6,500 per home in energy efficiency upgrades and will be available for families making up to 200% of the federal poverty level—or about $44,000 a year for a family of four.

In addition to weatherization funding, Kansas is receiving $38,284,000 for the State Energy Program—dollars which will flow through the State Energy Office.

State Energy Program funding will be available for rebates to consumers for home energy audits or other energy saving improvements; development of renewable energy projects for clean electricity generation and alternative fuels; promotion of Energy Star products; and efficiency upgrades for state and local government buildings. The plans for how to spend all the money are still in the works; the Energy Office is considering other innovative efforts to help families save money on their energy bills.