ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM

Homeowners and renters, including households whose cost of heat is included in the rent, can apply at the agency in their area.  Eligibility is based on household size and the gross annual income of every household member, 18 years of age or older. Household income cannot exceed 60% of estimated State Median Income.

HEARTWAP

Heating Emergency Assistance Retrofit Task Weatherization Assistance Program provides heating system services to low-income households.

WAP

Weatherization Assistance Program provides a variety of weatherization measures to Fuel Assistance eligible households whose income does not exceed 60% of the State Median Income and who reside in the Self Help service area.  Weatherization is the nation’s largest energy efficiency program trained inspectors and crews install measures aimed at reducing the cost of energy for low income families.  The WAP program prioritizes applications according to need:

The Self Help Energy Conservation Programs encompass a wide array of services that receive funding from both Government as well as utility company sources.  Current Energy Conservation Programs include:

HEART-WAP PROGRAM (HWAP)

Columbia Gas of  MA

National Grid Electric & Gas

NSTAR Electric &Gas

New England Gas

This federally and public utility funded program offers a variety of heating system services to fuel assistance certified clients which may include:

• Emergency heating system repairs
• Heating system replacements
• Burner replacements
• Oil Tank replacements
• Limited Asbestos removal
• Clean and tune program (when funding is available)

In order for a fuel assistance certified tenant to be considered for heating system repair or replacement, the landlord must also be fuel assistance certified.

Weatherization Assistance Program

WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (WAP)

Columbia Gas of  MA

National Grid Electric & Gas

NSTAR Electric &Gas

New England Gas

This federally and public utility funded program offers fuel assistance certified clients the opportunity to have insulation and air sealing installed in their homes free of change.  The insulation and air sealing is designed to keep the home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.  An Energy Audit is performed on the client’s home to see what the insulation and air sealing needs are that will help the client save energy dollars.  A home weatherized by this program can save up to 30% in heating and cooling cost.  This is a 12 month program.

*See chart below

Wondering if you qualify for Fuel Assistance? If you do you may also apply for the Weatherization Program and the Home Heating Repair / Replacement Program. Please call the numbers listed below to apply for the Fuel Assistance Program and then you can apply for these energy saving programs.

Here’s a brief overview of the income guidelines for most typical families:

Based on Gross Annual Income Maximum of 200% of poverty level. Income up to 200% of poverty eligible. To inquire about your eligibility for Fuel Assistance call 508-588-5440.

Utility WAP/AMP Programs

This public utility sponsored program offers low income customers information on how to save energy dollars. Refrigerators and freezers are metered for efficiency and if found to be inefficient, may be replaced free of charge.  Customers also receive compact fluorescent light bulbs to replace their incandescent bulbs.  This is a 12 month program. Both home owners and renters are eligible.

NSTAR AMP Program

This public utility sponsored program offers low income customers information on how to save energy dollars. Refrigerators and freezers are metered for efficiency and if found to be inefficient, may be replaced free of charge.  Customers also receive compact fluorescent light bulbs to replace their incandescent bulbs.  This is a 12 month program. Both home owners and renters are eligible.

In order to qualify NSTAR Electric Program:

1)      The electric bill must be in the name of the current occupant

2) The current occupant must be on fuel assistance

The Effect of Energy Efficiency on Customers:

• Through participation in any one of our Energy Conservation programs, customers can realize:
• A reduction in energy costs that average $300 annually.
• Safer, affordable and more comfortable homes.
• Knowledge of energy efficiency practices.