In 2022, HARC received funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to provide underserved communities in Texas with repair and weatherization solutions for their homes. Weatherization is the process of upgrading a home to improve energy efficiency, home health, and make it safer for extreme weather events. This can include upgrading insulation, sealing drafts, HVAC duct sealing, exhaust fans, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors. By making these improvements, this initiative will help communities reduce their utility costs, enhance their home safety, and strengthen their resilience.
Working with CEER, BakerRipley, Frontier Energy, and SPEER, HARC is leading this three-year program, starting in Harris County, then expanding to Travis County. The project actively engages residents to identify challenges and create lasting weatherization solutions.
With rising energy costs and extreme summer heat and weather events, access to safe, affordable housing is more critical than ever. This project introduces a new deployment model that streamlines weatherization services, allowing more homes to receive upgrades faster. By integrating weatherization with home rebuild programs, raising awareness in the community, and helping homeowners navigate title and tax assessment issues, the program is ensuring that more Texans can benefit from energy-efficient, resilient homes.