Uncertain Quality, Energy Savings, and Future Production Hamper the Weatherization Program
EMD-82-2
Published: Oct 26, 1981. Publicly Released: Oct 26, 1981.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the need to improve the administration and effectiveness of the Department of Energy's (DOE) low-income weatherization assistance program. This program uses Federal funds to help low-income people improve the energy efficiency of their homes. GAO considered the program's effectiveness, energy savings, financial controls, and compliance monitoring.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should revise the progress reporting system to ensure that DOE regional operations offices and the States take adequate action to require accurate recordkeeping and reporting by local agencies. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should require that an adequate inspection of weatherized units be made by the local administering agency before the units are reported as completed. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should obtain statistically valid data to determine the energy savings resulting from the weatherization program. |
Closed – Implemented
As part of an ongoing review of the Weatherization Program (Code 308761), GAO plans to fully review a DOE energy savings study issued in September 1984. The review indicates that the study has several shortcomings such as lack of a control group, it is better than many other available studies. GAO will comment on the adequacy of the DOE study in its report on the program.
|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should instruct DOE operations offices to periodically assess State weatherization programs for adequacy of State monitoring and accuracy of program reports. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
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Topics
Energy conservationEnergy consumptionEnergy costsEnergy efficiencyFederal aid programsInsulationLow income housingProgram evaluationEnergy savingsBudget proposals