The State of Alabama announced  Monday, Oct. 4 that Gov. Bob Riley awarded $1.74 million in grants for Alabama’s low-income residents.

According to a press release, the grant money must be used to help residents make their homes more energy efficient and minimize their utility bills.

Elderly, disabled and low-income residents with children will be given priority to receive grant assistance.

“Every year weatherization projects help many Alabama families that are struggling financially save money by conserving energy,” Riley said in a press release. “By helping to lower utility costs, these families are able to have more money for other essentials.”

In order for a resident to receive assistance, an energy audit must be performed to identify the most cost-effective measures available. Homes that are audited and approved may receive modifications that will improve energy efficiency and safety. Typical improvements that are suggested on homes may include the replacement of incandescent lights with new compact fluorescent bulbs, adding insulation, sealing leaks or repairing heating and air-conditioning systems.    

    The state program is administered by the Community Services Section of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

    The grant money will be distributed by sixteen agencies throughout the state. Locally, the Community Action Agency of Baldwin, Escambia, Clarke, Monroe and Conecuh Counties will administer the program at the local level.

    All applications from Baldwin County residents who wish to be considered for assistance through these grants should be directed to the Community Action Agency of Baldwin, Escambia, Clarke, Monroe and Conecuh Counties. This agency can be reached by calling 251-626-2646.

    Baldwin, Escambia, Clarke, Monroe and Conecuh Counties have been awarded $90,831. Neighboring Mobile, Choctaw and Washington Counties received $162,289 to be distributed throughout the counties.