Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced the statewide launch of West Virginia’s Home Energy Rebate programs, expanding access to home efficiency upgrades designed to lower utility costs and help West Virginia families keep more of their hard-earned money. West Virginia has been allocated $88 million through the federal programs.
“Affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing West Virginia families, and lowering monthly energy bills is one way we can help families keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Governor Morrisey. “We want to hold down energy costs, create good-paying jobs, and make sure West Virginians have every opportunity to get ahead.” 
West Virginia was the first state to launch under new federal guidance and received more than 300 applications from homeowners during the pilot phase.
Qualifying low-income households can receive eligible improvements with no out-of-pocket cost within program limits, while options are available for moderate-income households as well.
His offices said the impact is already being seen by participating homeowners. Judy Fry, the first West Virginia homeowner to receive upgrades through the program. She said she saw her first electric bill following the improvements drop by 33.5 percent, saving her $102 in one month.
“That’s real money that stays in a family’s pocket and can go toward groceries, gas, prescriptions, or whatever else that family needs,” Governor Morrisey said. “As we take these programs statewide, we expect thousands of West Virginia households to benefit from lower energy costs.”
The programs are expected to serve approximately 10,000 West Virginia homes and generate between $3 million and $4.5 million in annual savings for participating households.
Eligibility is based primarily on household income, with rebate amounts varying by income level and the type of home energy improvements being completed.
Low-income households can receive higher levels of assistance, including eligible improvements with no out-of-pocket cost within program limits.
Moderate-income households can get rebates that may cover a portion of eligible project costs.
Households above moderate income could qualify for some rebates depending on the project and projected energy savings.
West Virginians can use the Office of Energy’s online eligibility information and tools to determine their income category and learn what assistance may be available.
Residents are urged to contact their regional program partner. For Morgan County, that partner is Eastern Action in Petersburg. They can be reached by email at infor@easternaction.org or by calling 304-538-7711.
Morrissey’s office said the statewide launch will also create demand for skilled workers, with approximately 350 contractors expected to be needed to carry out rebate-related work. Nearly $1.9 million in program funding is dedicated to workforce development, including $1.6 million for training residential energy contractors.
More than 100 participants are currently enrolled in the West Virginia Energy Efficiency Contractor program, and the Office of Energy has a $1.2 million application pending to establish an energy internship program with major employers across the state.
More information is found online at https://energywv.org/programs-initiatives/home-energy-rebate-programs/
