Southwest Virginia Building Upgrade Program

The Southwest Virginia Building Upgrade Program (SWVA Building UP) is a pilot energy efficiency initiative led by Appalachian Voices. Designed to serve community-serving facilities in the coalfield region of Southwest Virginia, the program offers energy audits, technical assistance, and up to $15,000 in funding support for energy upgrades. Its primary objective is to enhance the resiliency, safety, and sustainability of nonprofit, municipal, and small business facilities in under-resourced Appalachian communities. Eligible buildings must be non-residential or contain non-residential units and must be located in one of the following areas: Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Scott, Tazewell, Russell, Wise counties, or the City of Norton. Originally funded with a $400,000 Phase 1 prize from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Upgrade Prize in 2023, the program moved forward independently after a funding pause in 2025. It aims to complete upgrades at a minimum of 15 community facilities, with a goal of investing at least $225,000 directly into energy improvements by the end of 2026. The initiative also promotes long-term energy savings and local workforce development, especially in energy efficiency and HVAC sectors. Eligible participants will undergo a comprehensive intake process that includes submission of an online application, confirmation of eligibility, assignment of a project coordinator, and a no-cost energy audit. Following audit review and contractor selection, participants may be awarded up to $15,000 in funding assistance based on upgrade types and costs. Final funding approval is granted after contractor quotes are secured and program staff confirm project readiness. Participation does not guarantee funding. Qualifying upgrades include weatherization, insulation, air and duct sealing, Energy Star windows and appliances, LED lighting, HVAC controls, ducted and mini-split heat pumps, and select environmental and health-related building improvements. Projects must demonstrate community-serving benefits and use licensed contractors. Weatherization is a mandatory component for all funded projects to ensure maximized energy efficiency. The current application window for Round 1 opened on October 1, 2025, and closes on December 31, 2025. Accepted applicants will be notified by January 30, 2026. A potential second application round may open from January 1 to June 30, 2026, pending available funds. All upgrades must be completed by December 1, 2026, with energy data collected through December 2027. Questions may be directed to Appalachian Voices at austin@appvoices.org, with responses also published in the program’s FAQ.

Ensure weatherization is included; Provide specific community benefits; Gather contractor quotes early; Be clear about operational status; Obtain building owner approval if needed