Wyden, Merkley: More than $30 Million to Oregon for Home Weatherization to Reduce Energy Costs and Increase Resilience

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley this week announced that Oregon will receive $30.6 million in federal funds for home weatherization to help reduce energy expenses for low-income families.

“Due to climate change, Oregon is suffering more instances of extreme weather—from heat islands to ice storms—and the costly weatherization and high energy bills have hit families hard,” Wyden said. “I am gratified this weatherization assistance can ease the financial burden for Oregon families as they work to make their homes more energy-efficient and resilient in the face of a changing climate.”

“From extreme forest fires and crippling droughts to severe hurricanes, torrential rains, floods, and winter storms, Oregonians in every corner of the state have experienced the impacts of climate chaos both physically and in their pocketbooks,” Merkley said. “I’m pleased this important funding for weatherization assistance is headed to Oregon. I know many communities will benefit greatly as their homes become more energy-efficient—keeping their families safe and lowering energy costs.”

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, while ensuring health and safety in extreme weather events. The program provides weatherization services to approximately 35,000 homes every year so that they can save an average of $372 in annual energy costs. 

A web version of this release is here.