November 21, 2000

Bard Encourages Home Weatherization for Lower Energy Costs

HARRISBURG-With winter approaching and the prices of oil and natural gas on their way up, low-income families in Montgomery County should take advantage of weatherization programs to save money on energy costs, according to Rep. Ellen M. Bard (R-153).

“According to the U.S. Department of Energy, low-income households spend 14 percent of their annual income on energy versus only 3.5 percent spent by other households,” Bard said.

“That’s an average energy expenditure of more than $1,000 a year for low-income families. Combine that with an expected 27 percent increase in the price of natural gas and a 30 percent boost in the price of oil this year, and the result is a considerable strain on household budgets.

“Weatherizing a home-eliminating drafts, installing insulation and venting, tuning up a furnace-can result in heating savings of 23 percent or more. That lessens the financial burden on families in need and helps ensure that they don’t have to choose between buying a tank of oil or buying groceries,” Bard said.

The lawmaker noted that weatherization has additional benefits, including reducing emissions of deadly carbon monoxide and eliminating fire hazards in the home.

Weatherization is provided at no charge to eligible low-income families and individuals. In Montgomery County the program is administered by the Community Action Development Commission (CADCOM), 701 DeKalb St., Norristown, telephone (610) 277-6363.

In an effort to attract more attention to the benefits of weatherization, Oct. 30 has been designated National Weatherization Day.

Bard said low-income families may also be eligible for energy assistance under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Applications for the program, which is expected to help about 245,000 eligible households in Pennsylvania pay for home heating fuel and furnace repairs, are currently being accepted.

Applications are available at county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies such as Area Agencies on Aging. For more information, contact Bard’s office at 1175 Old York Road, Abington. The telephone number is (215) 881-BARD.