SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO—In 2021, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro’s Department of Community and Economic Development helped 140 homes reduce their household energy burden through the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP). This program is designed to assist households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and is available to all eligible households in Summit County.
HWAP is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To qualify for this program, the average household income may not exceed $55,500 for a family of four. Program participants receive a home inspection to identify the services necessary to improve their home’s energy efficiency. After the inspection is complete a plan for improving the home’s energy efficiency is drafted. The plan may include a safety inspection, tune-up/repair, and if necessary, installation of heating, installation of insulation, reduction of air leakage from major sources and personalized energy management plans.
“With cost-of-living expenses rising, low-income families and fixed-income households cannot afford to overspend on high energy bills. After weatherization work is complete, we estimate clients save an average of 30% annually on their energy bills,” said County Executive Shapiro. “HWAP is helping put money back in the pockets of Summit County residents.”
Weatherization inspectors use computerized energy audits and advanced diagnostic technologies to determine the most cost-effective measures for each home. They also assess related health and safety conditions. The County Executive’s Office partners with FirstEnergy, the City of Green, the City of Barberton and Direction Home to provide additional weatherization services.
For more information on applying for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program, please visit https://co.summitoh.net/pages/HWAP.html or call 330-643-2537.
