Weatherization Can Improve Energy Efficiency

Weatherization is a low-cost but underutilized solution for reducing emissions in the building sector. Weatherization programs, which are now backed by both federal and state funding, aim to help low- and moderate-income households make their homes airtight through insulation, crack sealing, and targeted upgrades. The process lowers energy use, improves indoor conditions, and results in fewer carbon emissions. For a state like Pennsylvania, where electricity prices continue steadily to climb and much of the housing stock is quickly aging, these services are increasingly important.

Weatherization spans a variety of home improvements, including insulating attics and walls, sealing ducts and windows, fixing or upgrading outdated heating systems, and resolving moisture or air quality problems that can undermine the comfort and efficiency of aging or poorly built homes. Most initiatives prioritize households that are income-qualified or carry high energy burdens; that is, families paying a disproportionately large share of their income toward utility bills.

A new report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found that fully weatherizing all homes nationwide that were initially deferred from participating in weatherization programs could cut annual utility bills by $2.5 million, save almost 50,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity, and reduce CO2 emissions by 150,000 metric tons over their lifetimes. The economic upside is compelling, but the non-financial benefits are just as important, including better air quality, fewer drafts and leaks, and steadier indoor temperatures during extreme weather.

About one in five homes is deferred from weatherization upgrades after an inspector determines that there are underlying issues that must first be repaired, such as a leaking roof, outdated electric service panel, or standing water in the basement, the report indicated. To resolve deferrals, weatherization providers need funding to repair these issues. The report found that repair costs per home could range from about $2,000 to $25,000, with the median cost being $15,000.

Many low-income residents do not have the money to make these needed repairs and the report suggests that there is substantial value in weatherizing these homes and that additional funding and coordination between utilities, states, municipalities, and nongovernmental organizations is needed.

In Pennsylvania, weatherization services are offered through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), run by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Eligible households can access these services at no cost, including home energy audits, insulation, HVAC repair, and small efficiency upgrades.

As interest in electrification and renewables continues to grow, weatherization remains a crucial first move. It shrinks demand before adding supply, helps to shield vulnerable households from price swings, and delivers immediate climate benefits without relying on emerging technology or costly infrastructure.