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Community Energy Efficiency Program Assistance
There are many federal programs in the United States that can be used to assist community energy efficiency programs. Most of these programs are offered through specific federal departments of the U.S. government. Below, we provide links to these departments. Within each homepage, most departments have an Energy Programs link that will provide information on its energy-related programs.
In addition to federal departments, we also list a few specific federal energy efficiency programs and resources below. Links are provided with a brief description of the particular program or resource.
- The State Energy Program (SEP)
Numerous energy-efficiency and renewable energy related projects are funded through the State Energy Program, operated by the DOE. The link above gives general information on the program and provides links to specific programs for various states and other related programs that could offer additional assistance.
- Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAP)
This program was created by DOE in 1978 and helps provide the funds and technical expertise to weatherize low-income residential homes. A local weatherization agency such as a non-profit organization or local government agency will carry out the energy audit and then recommend weatherization measures to be completed. Then the funds, on average $2,500 per house, will be used to implement those measures.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
This is a federally funded state program similar to the Weatherization Assistance Program. It is operated in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as well as DOE. All fifty states in the nation have a LIHEAP that is funded primarily by the DOE and other federal, state, and local programs. This program not only helps low-income families weatherize their homes but also assists with energy bill payment and energy crisis situations.
- Energy Star Program
This is a government-sponsored program that helps communities protect the environment through energy efficiency.
- Fannie Mae
This government sponsored foundation offers energy loans typically around $15K to help fund energy efficiency upgrades of solar water, space heating, and photovoltaic system.
- Clean Cities Program
Operated by DOE, the purpose of this program is to "enhance our nation’s energy security and air quality by supporting public and private partnerships that deploy clean-burning alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and build their associated fueling infrastructure."
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)
This DOE operated department has the most comprehensive federal energy efficiency and renewable energy programs that could assist a community's energy efficiency program.
- Homes and Communities — Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Numerous programs and initiatives are offered through this department of the U.S. government and are available in each state.
- Rural Development — U.S. Department of Agriculture(USDA)
This department mainly offers programs that provide technical service and financial assistance to improve the economy of rural communities.
- DOE's Industrial Technologies Program
This office was created through DOE with the goal to increase energy efficiency, improve environmental performance, and enhance productivity in American industries. In addition to various programs, this site provides a list of manufacturers, trade associations, industrial service and equipment providers, utilities, and other organizations that are dedicated to increased energy efficiency and productivity in the industrial sector.
- Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE)
Great web site that provides information on federal, state, utility, and local incentives that promote the use of renewable energy.
- Federal Financing Solar Energy Efficiency Projects (PDF)
A report providing detailed information on federal funding available for solar and other energy efficiency programs. Federal departments include: DOE, USDA, EPA, Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, Dept. of Veterans Affairs, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
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