Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) - Sustainable Energy Resources for Consumers (SERC) Grants

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE)

Purpose

To fund the deployment of renewable energy systems and other energy technologies and solutions not covered under WAP.

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

Eligible applicants include existing WAP Grantees and Subgrantees. Direct Service WAP Grantees (e.g., U.S. Territories) are eligible to apply for SERC grants individually. Eligible units are those homes previously weatherized, currently being weatherized, or those slated for weatherization in the future.

Decarbonization Considerations

Eligible technologies include, but are not limited to: 1) onsite renewable energy technology, such as solar PV, wind turbine, solar heating and cooling, and solar water heater; 2) air source and ground source heat pump technologies; 3) cool roof technologies; 4) integration with utility smart-grid pilots or implementations; 5) heat pump water heaters; 6) windows - triple or double pane low-e and u factor, high r value; 7) whole-house ventilation – balanced, energy recovery; and 8) installing new electrical panels or materials to support the electrical upgrades necessary for SERC measures being installed.

Equity Considerations

SERC BIL-funded projects are expected to (1) support engagement with community and labor to enhance partnerships; (2) invest in America’s workforce; (3) advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEAI); and (4) contribute to the President’s goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities (the Justice40 Initiative).

Helpful Tips

When developing a SERC project, consider “Suggestions for Future Impact Evaluations” section of the report, Assessment of the US Department of Energy’s Sustainable Energy Resources for Consumers Grant Program: https://weatherization.ornl.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ORNLTM2017703SERC.pdf

Other Notes

SERC funds are not subject to the Average Cost Per Dwelling Unit (ACPU) limits for weatherization jobs and renewable energy measures. However, to adhere to the cost effectiveness priorities of the Program and implement projects that may be scalable to the WAP, applicants should consider keeping the ACPU for DOE SERC funds to $20K or less. The total project could include braided funds and have a higher ACPU.