Weatherization: a green recovery strategy

Experts hope increased weatherization efforts will produce new jobs, help small businesses and accelerate the movement toward a reduced-carbon economy.

Last fall, President Obama called for a 10 year campaign to weatherize one million homes per year. This call to action is well-matched with the administrations calling for conscious cultivation of "green collar" jobs to address the energy efficiency and environmental challenges facing the country. Retrofitting homes for energy efficiency will stimulate public and private investment in green small businesses, as well as manufacturing more energy-efficient material including insulation, caulking, doors, windows, home appliances and heating and cooling systems.

For WGAP, this increase will mean hiring more staff, purchasing more supplies and weatherizing more homes.

For local households, the process begins with completion of a WGAP application.

Once determined eligible, an energy audit of the residence is completed. This audit clearly shows what weatherization measures need to be taken to increase efficiency including air/draft sealing, and whole house insulation.

As soon as possible, the WGAP crew completes the necessary work to make the home more efficient. Along with increasing efficiency, each household receives conservation education.

Weatherization Services are available for renters or homeowners as long as the household meets the income guidelines.

Information and applications are available at all three WGAP offices: in Stevenson at 25 NE Second St; Goldendale at 114 W Main; and Bingen at 1250 E Steuben.

Information is also available by calling 493-2662 or (800) 755-1192.