Energy costs are on everyone’s mind at this time of year, especially now during the State’s struggle with an economic downturn.  The Nevada Housing Division’s Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) can help you stay warm while saving money.

 “The Housing Division’s Weatherization Assistance Program is a well established program which provides an energy audit, installation of weatherization measures, and education to help low-income residents save on their utility bills,” said Charles L. Horsey, Housing Division Administrator.

While other programs in the State assist low-income residents with the costs of heating their homes, the Housing Division’s program strives to permanently reduce energy bills, rather than paying for them on a one-time basis.  The first step in the WAP process is an energy audit, which is an in-depth analysis of a home’s energy efficiency.  The audit identifies where air leaks may be occurring or which appliances are not operating at optimal efficiency. Depending on the audit’s findings, the Housing Division’s service provider may install insulation, weather-stripping, or caulking to increase the energy efficiency of a home or replace certain appliances with more efficient units.

The program’s mission is to reduce energy usage for households at or below 150% of the federal poverty income guidelines.   Individuals participating in the State’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program are eligible as well.  The Weatherization Assistance Program is funded primarily by the Fund for Energy Assistance and Conservation in Nevada.  Other funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energy, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Housing Division’s Low-Income Housing Trust Fund.

To find out which WAP service provider covers your county, visit the Housing Division’s Weatherization page online at http://www.nvhousing.state.nv.us/weatherization/service%20providers.htm or call the Division at (702) 486-7220 in Las Vegas or (775) 687-2040 in Carson City.

 “By tackling the problem from multiple angles, we’re able to make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of our residents’ homes,” said Horsey. “After our service providers analyze the homes and make the necessary physical improvements, we provide homeowners with the tips that will help them realize long term energy savings.”

The Housing Division reminds all Nevadans, regardless of income level, that proper weatherization can make their homes more energy efficient, saving them money and keeping their homes warmer.  Following are a few tips from the Housing Division to get more heating for your dollar:

   For more information about the Nevada Housing Division, visit their website at  http://www.nvhousing.state.nv.us/.