Weatherization Assistance Program

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, through its State Energy Office, administers the Weatherization Assistance Program as part of a broader effort to deliver federally funded energy efficiency services to low income households. This program operates under funding provided by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of Health and Human Services, with the state serving as the grantee and local service providers acting as subgrantees. The annual application process invites qualified organizations to apply for participation in delivering weatherization services across designated service areas within North Carolina. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to expand and maintain a network of capable subgrantees that can implement energy conservation measures in eligible homes. These services are designed to reduce energy burdens, lower utility costs, and improve living conditions for low income residents, particularly those who are elderly, have disabilities, have young children, or experience high energy usage. The program emphasizes equitable access across all counties and aims to support a transition to a more sustainable and energy efficient housing stock. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, meaning selected subgrantees will receive federal funds to cover allowable costs associated with delivering weatherization services. Eligible expenditures include energy audits, installation of insulation, air sealing, replacement of heating and cooling systems, and other approved energy conservation measures. All activities must comply with federal regulations including 10 CFR 440 and Uniform Guidance under 2 CFR Part 200. Subgrantees are also required to maintain detailed financial documentation and participate in monthly reporting processes to ensure accountability and transparency. Eligibility is limited to community action agencies, government entities, and nonprofit or other public organizations that meet strict operational and financial criteria. Applicants must demonstrate fiscal solvency, organizational capacity, relevant experience in weatherization services, and the ability to manage federal funding streams. They must also have established leadership structures, sufficient staffing, and the ability to deliver services across the designated geographic area, which for this application includes a multi county region referred to as Area C. The application process is competitive and involves submission through an online portal. Applicants are required to complete detailed narrative responses, provide organizational documentation, and include required attachments such as resumes and insurance certifications. Questions during the application period must be submitted through a formal portal, and all responses are shared publicly to ensure fairness. Evaluation is conducted by a third party committee based on criteria such as program experience, management capability, and completeness of the application. The timeline for this funding opportunity begins with an application release in mid June, followed by a short question submission window and a firm application deadline at the end of June. Selected providers are expected to be announced in early July and incorporated into the state’s annual program plan. The program operates on a fiscal year basis, and selected subgrantees must be prepared to begin implementation in alignment with the state’s planning cycle. Overall, this opportunity supports the delivery of critical energy efficiency services to vulnerable populations while requiring strong administrative, financial, and operational capacity from participating organizations. It reflects the state’s commitment to reducing energy costs, improving housing conditions, and advancing environmental goals through coordinated federal and state efforts.

Ensure all questions are fully answered follow instructions precisely and avoid including unnecessary information as incomplete or extraneous submissions may negatively impact evaluation