In the News

Utah Weatherization ARRA Program Activities

9/16/2009

Utah is the first state to complete weatherized homes under the Recovery Act. As of July 31st, Utah completed 46 ARRA projects with 481 more in progress. Utah has hired 77 additional Weatherization workers and contractors, more than doubling prior staffing levels. More individuals will be hired as the program continues to ramp-up production capacity, ultimately creating 120 to 150 new positions through the Recovery Act, comprised of electricians, plumbers and other professional trades.

Recovery Act funds have increased the program’s eligibility threshold to 150% of the federal poverty level, thus increasing the number of projects completed. The Utah Weatherization program emphasizes on energy audits, insulation, reduction of excess air leakage, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), client education, electric base-load reductions and operation and maintenance.

Utah anticipates expending the full $37,897,203 in ARRA funding prior to the March 31, 2012 deadline and exceed the minimum 4,466 homes that must be completed under the grant. In addition, Utah may be in a position to utilize unused Recovery Act Weatherization funds from other states if the opportunity presents itself.