The Department of Energy’s priority for WAP is achieving net-zero carbon emissions economy-wide by 2050, addressing historical energy and environmental injustices, and expanding the clean energy workforce. By reducing energy consumption, WAP reduces carbon emissions from buildings and electricity production and eases strain on the grid as we transition to cleaner electricity sources. WAP work scopes lessen or eliminate fossil fuel use through: (1) Tuning, cleaning and repairing relatively new/operable fossil fuel burning appliances. This increases efficiency, saving money for the client and reducing carbon emissions. (2) Electrification projects that convert appliances to ones that run on electricity, eliminating fossil fuels when feasible, as the country continues to “green the grid. (3) Increasing solar projects through WAP, NYSERDA or other funding sources.

WAP lessens the impact of higher energy costs on low-income families and improves the health and safety of assisted households. As a grant, not a loan, WAP helps keep housing affordable for both homeowners and tenants. No rent increase is allowed for WAP improvements. Reduced energy and maintenance costs due to WAP improvements free up a building’s operating budget for other repairs. Apartments are more comfortable and healthier to live in. WAP work can address violations, such as lack of heating and hot water, leaks, and defective doors or windows. Building owners can apply for a NYC J-51 tax abatement based on WAP work, freeing up additional capital for their maintenance budget.

The in-house instrumented WAP audit assesses health and safety issues in the home and ensures improvements. WAP enhances Indoor Air Quality through the reduction of carbon monoxide, gas leaks, and volatile organic compounds. It remediates lead, radon, asbestos, refrigerants, and mercury. WAP eliminates leaks or other conditions that lead to excess moisture and mold. It also removes pests, unsanitary conditions, and flammable compounds. WAP installs working smoke and CO detectors and fire extinguishers where mandated. WAP conducts steady-state efficiency tests of fossil combustion equipment, such as boilers and hot water makers. WAP ensures proper ventilation and air exchanges per hour as well as proper venting of chimney gasses from combustion appliances. Additionally, it resolves other obvious code or safety issues observed during the audit.

The WAP program creates quality jobs, promotes job retention, and stimulates the local economy. WAP builds the local economy through training and employing Bronx residents as professional energy auditors. Ninety percent of NWBCCC WAP staff are born and raised in the Bronx or are current Bronx residents! Local contractors are encouraged to participate, as are minority or women-owned business enterprises and veterans’ enterprises. Local vendors are used to purchase supplies, materials, and services. Federal Weatherization dollars are invested in improving homes and apartment buildings in our community where low-income residents live. Leveraged dollars from owners, Con Ed, NYSERDA and other government, private and public funding sources can be braided with WAP dollars in these projects as well.