Columbia Utilities pledges up to $250,000 to help households make energy efficiency upgrades
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
City of Columbia Utilities has agreed to help fund the Central Missouri Community Action’s (CMCA) Weatherization Assistance Program for Columbia Water & Light electric customers.
The city made the announcement in a press release on Wednesday. It says CMCA provides assistance to income-eligible households to make energy efficiency improvements.
Columbia has pledged up to $250,000 over the next five years to the program. The city says the five-year agreement will help make sure qualifying households can make energy efficiency upgrades at no cost.
City of Columbia Utilities says by pledging the money, it's looking to build on its past successes by expanding access and better aligning its programs with the City of Columbia's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan as well as national weatherization initiatives.
By implementing this program, the city says it will reduce the energy burden and improve opportunities for positive economic outcomes for all Columbia residents.
According to the Division of Energy within the Missouri Department of Economic Development, households that have received weatherization services are better able to afford utility bills and reduce debt. A weatherized home can reduce average annual fuel usage by 35% for the typical low-income home.
For eligibility information or to apply for the program, the City of Columbia recommends contacting Central Missouri Community Action at 573.443.3500 or to email Taylorq@cmca.us.
