Governor Kay Ivey has allocated over $3 million in grants to help low-income residents of Alabama reduce their energy costs. The initiative, part of the Weatherization Assistance Program, aims to assist the elderly, people with disabilities and families with children by making their homes more energy efficient.

The grants have been distributed to 13 local agencies across the state, including the Community Action Agency of South Alabama, which serves several counties including Baldwin. This agency has been awarded $216,447 to support local residents in these areas. Applications for assistance will be accepted by these agencies as they establish their respective application periods.

"Energy costs can be overwhelming for low-income Alabama residents, especially during times of extreme heat or cold," Ivey said in a news release. "Recipients of this assistance will be able to upgrade their homes in ways that will lower their bills both now and in the future."

Each qualifying home will undergo an energy audit to determine the most cost-effective improvements. Common upgrades include adding extra insulation in the attic, walls and floor; sealing air leaks around doors and windows; repairing or tuning up air conditioning and heating units; and replacing incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency ones. These enhancements not only lower energy bills but also reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

"ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in support of this assistance for Alabama's most vulnerable populations," ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. "The partnerships we have with community-based agencies makes it possible to deliver this help to those who need it most."

Residents in Baldwin, Clarke, Escambia, Conecuh, Monroe, Marengo and Wilcox counties can contact the Community Action Agency of South Alabama at (251) 626-2646 for more information about the weatherization assistance program and application periods.