The Multifamily Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program aims to improve energy efficiency and safety in multifamily housing for low-income residents while reducing overall energy consumption. The program is part of a broader initiative to decrease reliance on foreign energy and lower energy costs for economically disadvantaged communities.
The Multifamily Weatherization Assistance Program provides funding for weatherization measures in buildings with five or more units, including both small multifamily buildings (5-24 units, up to three stories) and large multifamily buildings (more than 25 units, more than three stories). The program prioritizes properties where at least 66% of the units are occupied by income-eligible residents. Eligible services include energy audits, insulation installation, air sealing, heating system modifications or replacements, electric baseload measures, health and safety repairs, and energy education for residents. The program ensures that these improvements primarily benefit tenants rather than landlords.
Eligibility to administer the program is open to Community Action Agencies, local and county government agencies, housing authorities, redevelopment authorities, and other public or nonprofit organizations. Selected administrators must have demonstrated experience in weatherization, residential energy efficiency, and safety remediation programs for multifamily properties. They must also have certified staff, including a Building Performance Institute (BPI)-certified Quality Control Inspector/Energy Auditor (QCI/EA) and EPA-certified Lead Renovation Repair and Painting (RRP) specialists.
Applications for funding must be submitted electronically through DCED’s Single Application for Assistance platform. The application window for the 2024 cycle is from January 22, 2024, to March 21, 2024. Selection criteria include the applicant's experience with multifamily weatherization, capacity to implement the program, ability to manage federal funding, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Awarded applicants will receive a Master Agreement, followed by a Funding Release, detailing the source of funding and approved amounts. Monthly invoicing and detailed reporting are required throughout the contract period.
For program inquiries, applicants may contact DCED's Center for Residential Reinvestment Programs at ra-wxmail@pa.gov or 1-866-466-3972. Additional information is available at dced.pa.gov.
