U.S. DOE Awards $53.6 Million In SERC Grants To Enhance Clean Energy In Low-Income Communities

As part of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the allocation of $53.6 million in Sustainable Energy Resources for Consumers (SERC) grants to fourteen state and territorial weatherization offices. These funds, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aim to deliver energy-saving measures and materials to low-income households beyond traditional weatherization efforts. Projects include advanced retrofits, solar photovoltaic panels, and energy-efficient technologies like cold climate air source heat pumps and triple-pane windows.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the importance of this initiative in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring that all Americans, regardless of income, can access clean energy tools. “We are infusing new technology and flexibility into the Department’s long-standing Weatherization Assistance Program, investing in more low-income households and creating more clean energy jobs,” Granholm said.

Since its inception in 1976, the Weatherization Assistance Program has benefited seven million households, offering an average of 30% savings on energy bills. The recent SERC grants aim to expand these benefits, particularly in disadvantaged communities, aligning with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative. This initiative seeks to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of federal climate and clean energy investments flow to marginalized communities.

The awarded grants span a diverse range of projects across the U.S., from Delaware’s decarbonization efforts to New York’s extensive Housing and Community Renewal program. These initiatives are poised to reduce energy burdens, enhance resilience, and support clean energy job creation in low-income communities.