Weatherization Day: Energy Efficiency Resources for those in Need

Weatherization Day is celebrated on October 30, which is fitting as the days grow colder as we head towards winter. The day is intended to raise awareness about the US Department of Energy's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) which is a nationwide program that was created in 1976. Their energy mission is geared towards reducing energy use and costs for low-income families, particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities, and children, while ensuring their health and safety.

In addition to the focusing on the WAP, the day is intended to raise awareness about the work being performed by the WAP network. The DOE has also added to the focus of the day by declaring October to be Energy Awareness Month. Continue reading to see the wide range of resources that can help to institute energy efficiency measures and communicate their value.
While there are a lot of things we can do to protect the environment and advance the green economy, one of the easiest and most accessible things we can do is to weatherize our homes. Energy for heating and cooling is among the most climate change causing greenhouse gas (GHG) intensive activities on the planet, so anything we can do to minimize our energy requirements is of great benefit. Weatherization not only saves money, it reduces energy and thereby decreases the amount of GHGs we emit.

Using the most advanced technologies and testing protocols available in the housing industry the WAPTAC program strives to decrease energy demand and costs through improved efficiency, as well as reduce dependence on foreign oil.

The WAPTAC website contains a virtual library of all rules, regulations, policies and procedures required by DOE's weatherization program. On the site you can also find photos and videos of work in progress, site demonstrations, news articles, and other documentation.

The plethora of resources on the WAPTAC site include energy efficiency measures and techniques to communicate the value of weatherization including best practices and procurement. In addition to implementing energy efficiency measures this is also a great day to communicate the value of weatherization with the public, in your workplace, as well as your municipal, state and federal leaders.

Starting a Public Information Campaign
Weatherization Day planning
Site demonstrations shows how weatherization works
Tips to promote Weatherization Day to get going on your planning.
Governor's proclamation for Weatherization Day in your state.
List of media outlets to reach out to with Weatherization stories listed by state.
Sample Weatherization Day proclamations
Press Releases
Documents from Around the Country.
Media release form