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The Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP)

Home Weatherization Assistance Program

As the costs of electric and natural gas bills rise, more Ohioans struggle to meet these expenses. One contributing factor might be inadequate home insulation. Without proper insulation or efficient temperature control systems, energy consumption rises, leading to higher monthly bills. The Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC), your residential utility consumer advocate, provides information about the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) for eligible consumers.

What is HWAP?

HWAP is a federally funded energy efficiency initiative for eligible residential consumers. Administered by the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services, Office of Community Support Services. It optimizes homes for energy conservation by weatherizing them and preventing heated or cooled air from escaping. The program offers the following services at no cost:

  • Health and safety testing and inspections.
  • Heating system repairs or replacements.
  • Reducing air leakage from major sources (chimneys, walls, etc.).
  • Insulation for attics, walls, floors, ducts, water tanks, and basements.
  • Personalized energy management plans.

Approved HWAP participants undergo a home inspection to determine cost-effective weatherization services. Renters need landlord approval.

Who is eligible?

Consumers qualify for the program if household income is at or below 200 percent of the federal income guidelines (see chart). Automatic eligibility is granted to those who received assistance in the past 12 months from these programs:

  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
  • Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP Plus)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF)

Priority is given to Ohioans over the age of 60, individuals with disabilities, households with children, and those with high energy usage.

How to apply

For more information, or to apply, visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or contact the local Energy Assistance Provider/Community Action Agency (EAP/CAA). HEAP applicants can indicate interest in HWAP when applying at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov. Learn more about HEAP and PIPP Plus www.occ.ohio.gov/utilityassistance.

What is the Home Weatherization Assistance Program? (30 sec. video)

 

2026 Income Guidelines

Size of
household*

200% of Total Gross
Annual Household Income

1

$31,920

2

$43,280

3

$54,640

4

$66,000

5

$77,360

6

$88,720

7

$100,080

* For families/households with more than 7 members, please contact your local Energy Assistance Provider.

 

 

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