Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), provides critical energy-related support to low-income households across Pennsylvania. Originally authorized by federal legislation in 1976 and reauthorized multiple times including under the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act, WAP aims to lower energy costs for low-income families while enhancing health and safety through energy-efficient home improvements. This program also helps reduce the broader energy consumption footprint. In Pennsylvania, WAP is administered by the DCED’s Center for Residential Reinvestment Programs and operates in all 67 counties through a network of approved subgrantee agencies, including community action agencies, local governments, housing authorities, and redevelopment authorities. The Pennsylvania WAP is primarily funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), with supplementary funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP funding supports both weatherization and emergency heating services under the Crisis Interface Program. These funds can also support the Deferral Program and related initiatives aligned with federal fund goals. All grant awards under the WAP must comply with federal regulations including 10 CFR 440 and 2 CFR 200, state-approved plans, and policy directives established by DCED and DHS. Eligible subgrantees must be public or nonprofit entities with a demonstrated capacity and experience in serving low-income populations. Individuals seeking services cannot apply directly to DCED but must instead contact their local weatherization service providers. Approved subgrantees are responsible for performing standardized energy audits using advanced diagnostic tools to determine cost-effective energy-saving measures. These services typically include insulation, air sealing, heating system repairs or replacements, and health and safety enhancements. All services must meet federally approved Standard Work Specifications (SWS), and quality control inspections must be conducted by certified inspectors. Income eligibility is determined using Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIGs), and prioritization of households is guided by a point-based ranking system implemented through official application software like Hancock or WAP. The system weighs factors such as occupant age and energy usage. Program compliance requirements include conflict-of-interest disclosure, non-discrimination adherence, and detailed recordkeeping for audits and inspections. Subgrantees must maintain compliance with procurement rules, submit regular financial reports, and undergo training and certification processes, including safety and environmental compliance. The application process is restricted to pre-approved agencies. These agencies must submit applications through Pennsylvania’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance system. Each application must include a project work plan and a proposed budget, with allocations based on state-determined formulas that consider population metrics, energy burden, and historical funding. Following acceptance, a Master Agreement and subsequent Funding Release will be issued by DCED. Subgrantees then invoice the department monthly using official forms. Program inquiries can be directed to the DCED's Center for Residential Reinvestment Programs via phone or email. While the program runs annually, specific deadlines vary and are defined through the electronic submission system. No explicit matching requirement or cost-sharing is stated. The WAP is not accepting individual applications for funding but instead manages funding through pre-selected agencies responsible for delivery and administration of services. The structure ensures a streamlined, regulated, and effective delivery of weatherization support to Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable households.