Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Safety in Low-Income Housing through MEA Partnership

With funding from the Maryland Energy Administration's (MEA) 2018 Clean Energy Communities Low-to-Moderate Income Grant Program (LMI) SAFE Housing, Inc. enhanced energy efficiency and addressed health and safety issues in low-to-moderate income housing in Western Maryland. Through this funding partnership, over 70 homes in three communities in Washington County benefited from weatherization upgrades, including LED lighting, ENERGY STAR appliances, air sealing, increased insulation, and HVAC system improvements. These upgrades not only saved energy and reduced costs but also improved indoor comfort and air quality for residents.

The MEA LMI program's flexibility allowed SAFE Housing, Inc. to target projects that were ineligible for other funding sources and leverage additional utility program funds, significantly expanding the scope and impact of their efficiency upgrades. By addressing specific challenges like HVAC distribution imbalances and incorporating smart ventilation solutions, SAFE Housing's initiatives showcase the program's ability to meet the diverse needs of low-income households while promoting energy savings, cost-effectiveness, and overall well-being.

Read More: 2018 Clean Energy Communities Low-to-Moderate Income Grant Program - SAFE Housing, Inc. Case Study by the Maryland Energy Administration (February 11, 2020).