The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) is accepting applications for its Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. This funding opportunity is designed for community action agencies, nonprofits, and public entities to become subgrantees who will provide weatherization services to low-income households across the state. The program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and is administered at the state level by NCDEQ’s State Energy Office (SEO). The initiative aims to reduce energy burdens and carbon emissions by implementing energy conservation measures in single-family and multi-family dwellings.

The purpose of this competitive application process is to ensure equitable access to weatherization services while maintaining high-quality program standards. All potential subgrantees, including current providers, must apply to continue receiving funds. The evaluation process will prioritize organizations with a strong track record in program administration, financial solvency, and demonstrated ability to provide weatherization services effectively. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a nonprofit or government entity, having an existing leadership structure, and demonstrating experience in delivering energy efficiency services.

Funding under this program is used to implement a variety of energy-saving measures such as air sealing, insulation, and the replacement of heating/cooling systems, windows, and doors. The program serves all 100 North Carolina counties, ensuring a fair distribution of resources to low-income households, particularly those with elderly residents, persons with disabilities, families with young children, and households with high energy burdens. Selected subgrantees will be required to comply with federal and state regulations, maintain detailed records, and submit reports in accordance with program guidelines.

The application process requires submission through the Smartsheet Applicant Portal, with a deadline of February 17, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. EST. The period for submitting written questions about the application is open until January 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EST, and responses will be posted by January 10, 2025. Selected subgrantees will be announced by March 27, 2025, and incorporated into the FY26 NC Weatherization Assistance Program State Plan, effective July 1, 2025.

Applications will be reviewed by an independent Evaluation Committee based on their demonstrated ability to deliver weatherization services, manage funds, and comply with federal regulations. Organizations impacted by Hurricane Helene in designated FEMA disaster areas in Western North Carolina may receive application assistance through the Land of Sky Regional Council.

For further inquiries, applicants must use the formal Question Portal. The primary contact for this funding opportunity is Sascha Medina, who can be reached at sascha.medina@deq.nc.gov or (919) 707-8672.