Low-Income Weatherization--Better Way of Meeting Needs in View of Limited Funds
RCED-86-19
Published: Oct 31, 1985. Publicly Released: Oct 31, 1985.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed low-income weatherization efforts in 17 states that had received over two-thirds of federal low-income weatherization funds in fiscal years 1982 through 1984 to: (1) describe the various weatherization efforts undertaken in selected states and provide data on the future of weatherization in terms of dwelling units weatherized, expenditures, and timeframes for weatherizing all eligible units; and (2) examine whether the weatherization program could be more effective if fewer dollars were spent per unit by limiting weatherization to the most cost-effective measures.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Energy | The Secretary of Energy should consider revising current program regulations governing prioritization of low-income weatherization program measures by establishing payback criteria. This would result in limiting weatherization measures to those that can be repaid through potential energy savings within the specified number of years. The appropriate number of years in the period could be based on a study of similar criteria in other programs and consultation with experts in the area. |
The DOE final decision is not to change its regulations. DOE noted that it would not be prudent to change its current regulations until there is sufficient documentation to show that such a change would lead to program improvement. DOE also noted that payback criteria are being used by states.
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Block grantsEnergy efficiencyFuel conservationHousing repairsInsulationLow income housingProgram managementPublic assistance programsEnergy savingsEnergy conservation