Nevada Housing Division Reminds Eligible Households of Year-Round Weatherization Assistance as Summer Heat Drives Energy Costs, Stress

As summer temperatures drive cooling costs statewide, the Nevada Housing Division (NHD), a division of the Nevada Department of Business and Industry, tasked with increasing access to housing for individuals of low and moderate incomes, is reminding households that meet income qualifications that applications are accepted year-round for its Weatherization Assistance Program. For eligible households, this program provides energy-efficiency improvements at no cost, assisting them in reducing utility bill expenses while making more homes safer and more comfortable. 

The reminder comes as both of Nevada's largest metropolitan areas continue experiencing increasing heat. According to Climate Central, Reno ranks as the nation's fastest-warming city based on changes in average annual temperature since 1970, while Las Vegas ranks second. Higher temperatures often translate into increased energy usage and subsequent increases in energy bills, in addition to added pressure on energy infrastructures, as households work to keep indoor spaces comfortable. 

Established in 1977, the Weatherization Assistance Program has helped improve the energy efficiency of thousands of homes across Nevada. The program serves households earning at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (as determined by the Department of Human Services). Eligible homeowners and renters may receive weatherization services at no cost, though owners of qualifying rental properties may be responsible for a portion of certain improvement costs. Applications are accepted by region through partnerships with approved area weatherization providers. Community Services Agency serves Carson City and the counties of Churchill, Douglas, Lyon, Storey and Washoe. HELP of Southern Nevada provides services in the cities of Las Vegas and Henderson, as well as southern rural Clark County. Rural Nevada Development Corporation serves the City of North Las Vegas, northern rural Clark County, and the counties of Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Mineral, Nye, Pershing and White Pine. 

Following a home energy assessment, improvements are tailored to each residence and may include weather stripping, repairs or replacement of heating, ventilation and air condition systems, refrigerators or water heaters, LED lighting, added insulation, and more. The national average savings per household is an estimated $372 per year, but given rising heat in Nevada, the Nevada savings average is estimated to be $450 per household.

Nevada residents interested in determining their eligibility or submitting an application for the Nevada Weatherization Assistance Program can learn more at https://housing.nv.gov/Programs/Weatherization/. 

The Nevada Housing Division works to expand housing opportunities and strengthen communities by helping Nevadans access safe, attainable and affordable housing. Through a range of state and federally funded programs, the division supports affordable rental housing development, homeownership opportunities, down payment assistance, weatherization services, and other initiatives designed to improve housing stability and quality of life across the state. 

About the Nevada Housing Division
The Nevada Housing Division, a division of the Department of Business and Industry, was created by the Nevada Legislature in 1975 to address the shortage of safe, decent, and sanitary housing for low- and moderate-income families throughout the state. For more than 50 years, the Division has been a leader in creating affordable housing opportunities, revitalizing neighborhoods, and strengthening communities. Learn more at www.housing.nv.gov. 

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