You’re likely no stranger to the burden of high energy bills, especially during Ohio’s harsh winters. Fortunately, the Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and Weatherization Program are here to help.
These government initiatives provide crucial assistance to low-income households, enabling them to reduce energy costs and improve their homes’ energy efficiency. But what exactly does this mean for you, and how can you tap into these resources? Let’s delve into the eligibility, application process, and benefits of these programs.
Key Takeaways
- Eligible Ohioans can apply for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) through local providers, such as COAD, or online at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov.
- Household income must be at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines to qualify for HWAP, with varying income limits based on household size.
- HWAP provides energy-efficient measures, such as insulation and appliance upgrades, to reduce energy costs and improve home comfort.
- Priority is given to Ohioans over 60, those with disabilities, those with children, and households with high energy usage and/or burden.
- Funding for HWAP comes from a combination of sources, including the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP), your household’s income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Priority is given to Ohioans over 60, those with disabilities, and those with children. If you receive assistance under SSI, TANF, or HEAP, you’re automatically income eligible.
You can apply for HWAP by contacting your local provider, like COAD, which serves 27 counties in Ohio. Alternatively, HEAP applicants can check the box for weatherization on the online application at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov.
Income Guidelines and Funding
You’ll need to meet specific income guidelines to qualify for HWAP, which vary based on household size.
For example, a household of one can earn up to $27,180, while a household of two can earn up to $36,620. This program offers vital financial help to those struggling with energy costs.
Funding for HWAP comes from a combination of sources, including the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Weatherization Assistance Program, making it especially beneficial for seniors living on fixed incomes.
Eligibility Requirements
The Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) has specific eligibility requirements, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.
To be eligible, your household’s income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, if you have a household size of 1, your income must be at or below $27,180.
You’re also eligible if you’ve received assistance under SSI, TANF, SNAP, or the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) within the last 12 months. In some cases, those already receiving housing assistance may also qualify automatically.
Funding Sources
Funding for the Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program comes from a combination of sources, including the U.S. Department of Energy’s Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ LIHEAP funds.
You should know that 15% of LIHEAP funds are earmarked for HWAP in accordance with Ohio law.
Additional funding is provided through the National Weatherization Assistance Program.
The Ohio Department of Development administers these energy assistance programs.
- The U.S. Department of Energy’s Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program provides funding for HWAP.
- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ LIHEAP funds are used, with 15% allocated to HWAP.
- The National Weatherization Assistance Program provides additional funding for HWAP.
- The Ohio Department of Development administers the energy assistance programs, including HWAP.
Energy Efficiency Measures and Services
Through the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP), your home can undergo a comprehensive evaluation to identify areas of energy inefficiency, providing opportunities for improvement.
A household audit will be conducted to identify energy efficiency opportunities, and heating system inspections will guarantee peak performance and reduce energy consumption.
Energy-efficient measures such as attic and side wall insulation, electric baseload analysis, and energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances may be installed to reduce energy usage and improve the energy efficiency of your home.
These measures can help reduce energy costs and make your home more comfortable through the Home Energy Assistance Program.
Electric Partnership Plan and WarmChoice
As you investigate the Electric Partnership Plan (EPP) and WarmChoice, you’ll discover programs designed to help you reduce your electricity usage and improve your home’s efficiency.
To be eligible for EPP, you’ll need to meet specific guidelines, including 12 months of electric usage at your current address and an annual electric baseload usage of at least 5,000 kWh.
Through EPP, you’ll receive valuable information on reducing your electricity use and have energy-efficient measures installed in your home.
Electricity Usage Reduction
You can take control of your electricity usage and reduce your energy costs with the Electric Partnership Plan (EPP) and WarmChoice programs.
These initiatives help eligible Ohioans reduce high energy usage and improve energy efficiency in their homes.
With EPP and WarmChoice, you can:
- Receive in-home audits to identify areas of energy inefficiency
- Get energy-efficient measures installed to reduce energy costs
- Learn how to reduce your electricity usage and improve your home’s energy efficiency
- Take advantage of weatherization services tailored to your specific needs
EPP Eligibility Guidelines
The Electric Partnership Plan (EPP) and WarmChoice programs have specific eligibility guidelines to guarantee that Ohioans who need assistance with energy efficiency improvements can participate.
To be eligible for EPP, you must have a total household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty levels or be on/eligible for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP).
Additionally, you need 12 months of electric usage at your current address and an annual electric baseload usage of at least 5,000 kWh.
For WarmChoice, income guidelines vary by household size, ranging from $27,180 for one person to $55,500 for four people.
Energy Efficiency Measures
Energy-efficient improvements are within reach for eligible Ohioans through the Electric Partnership Plan (EPP) and WarmChoice programs.
These programs help you reduce your energy costs and improve your home‘s energy efficiency.
Through EPP and WarmChoice, you’ll receive:
- In-home energy audits to identify areas for improvement
- Installation of energy-efficient measures, such as LED bulbs and power strips
- Information on reducing your electricity use and improving your home’s efficiency
- Assistance in reducing your energy consumption and improving energy efficiency
How to Get Started With HWAP
Getting started with the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) in Ohio requires connecting with a local provider to submit an application. You can find a provider by visiting the Ohio HWAP Service Providers and Contacts by County link or contacting COAD at (740) 594-8499, which serves 27 counties. The application must be submitted to the HWAP provider to initiate services.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Contact a local HWAP provider to submit an application |
| 2 | Complete a home inspection to identify necessary services |
| 3 | Receive services through local agencies in your county |
Priority is given to eligible Ohioans over 60, those with disabilities, those with children, and households with high energy usage and/or burden.
Additional Resources and Contact Information
You can access additional resources and contact information to further assist you with the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) in Ohio.
The Ohio Department of Development‘s website provides information on HWAP and other energy assistance programs.
The Department of Energy’s website offers details on the National Weatherization Assistance Program, which funds HWAP.
- COAD, an HWAP provider for 27 counties, can be reached at (740) 594-8499 to initiate the HWAP process.
- For more information, visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or www.development.ohio.gov, or call ODOD at 1-800-282-0880.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the Ohio Weatherization Program Cover?
You’ll receive comprehensive weatherization services covering home energy audits, insulation upgrades, and furnace replacements to improve energy efficiency. These services also include home repairs, such as sealing air leaks, to reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills.
What Is the Income Limit for Heap in Ohio?
As you wonder if you’ll qualify, you’re likely thinking, “What’s the magic number?” Well, your household size determines the income limit, ranging from $27,180 for one to $55,500 for four, impacting energy costs, benefit amounts, and your application process.
Who Is Eligible for the Weatherization Program?
You’re eligible for the weatherization program if you’re a low-income family, elderly, or receive disability benefits, and your home needs energy-efficient renovations. A government-funded energy audit assesses your housing conditions, paving the way for home renovation grants to improve energy efficiency.
What Is the Difference Between Heap and PIPP in Ohio?
As you navigate the complex world of energy assistance, you’re wondering what sets apart two vital programs. HEAP provides a one-time government-funded benefit to help low-income households with winter heating costs, whereas PIPP offers year-round utility bill payments based on income percentage.
Conclusion
You’ve taken the first step towards reducing your energy costs and improving your home’s efficiency by learning about the Ohio HEAP and Weatherization Program. Notably, in 2020, the program helped over 12,000 Ohio households reduce their energy consumption by an average of 20%. By taking advantage of these resources, you can join the thousands of Ohioans already benefiting from lower energy bills and a more comfortable living space.
