As the first blades of grass start to emerge from the ground, most Vermonters are taking in a welcomed breath of fresh air. Thoughts about “winterization” or “weatherization” projects may not be at the forefront of people’s minds despite an inevitable return of colder weather. For now, though, the heat and humidity of summer is rapidly approaching.
VHFA’s message to Vermonters is - “Enjoy spring and summer,” but realize, no matter what the season (or temperature), inefficient home heating and cooling systems keep energy costs high. Fortunately, VHFA’s Weatherization Repayment Assistance Program (WRAP) offers Vermont homeowners and renters who qualify a way to afford home energy efficiency improvements which help lower costs and increase efficiency.
WRAP was established in 2021 as a state-funded program geared at promoting housing weatherization among Vermont households with high energy burdens. As VHFA describes it, “a high energy burden might be caused by an outdated furnace that uses more fuel to heat a home, or maybe it’s lack of insulation allowing hot or cool air to escape.” WRAP helps income-eligible households lower their net-energy costs, increase levels of comfort, decrease health-related stress factors, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. A win-win for households and the environment.
VHFA has continued to recognized home weatherization funding "that improves home affordability, resident health, lowers carbon use, and invests in rural communities with high energy burdens,” as a priority (see VHFA’s 20/20 Vision Strategic Plan). Additionally, Efficiency Vermont's 2023 Energy Burden Report indicated 30% of Vermont households spent an average of $7500/yr on energy while energy spending in the western part of the state, particularly Addison and Bennington Counties, was highest, and energy costs continue to escalate.
WRAP can offer financing to help cover the costs of home projects like air sealing and insulation, as well as added equipment like heat pumps, electric water heaters and advanced wood stoves. Approved projects may be eligible for up to $11,000 in combined utility and WRAP grants, depending on available rebates and eligibility. The remaining costs can be covered by the WRAP charge, which is added to the customer’s monthly utility bill, thus alleviating the burden of paying a large one-time payment to a contractor. For many Vermonters dealing with older and inefficient energy systems, being able to pay for upgraded energy-efficient systems over time is the only way to afford the upgrades.
Participating WRAP households have averaged net energy bill savings of $719 annually, after repayment costs, as well as enjoyed the benefits of a more comfortable home. A report by Energy Action Network notes, “At the household level, transitioning away from fossil fuels to efficient electric options for space heating, water heating, and transportation can result in significant cost savings each year.” An added bonus includes the impact an increase in energy-efficient homes plays in reducing Vermont’s overall carbon footprint over time.
Spring and summer are great months to consider WRAP for household heating and cooling projects! Find out more about WRAP on VHFA’s website and contact one of the following program administrators for more information on how to qualify and apply for WRAP: Vermont Gas Systems (VGS); Burlington Electric; or Efficiency Vermont.