Weatherization Program for County Residents

Borough residents can gain relief from high utility bills by applying for the Weatherization Assistance Program. Program eligibility is determined by income level and is funded from state and federal grant monies to both homeowners and tenants.

In Bergen County it is run by the Bergen County Community Action Partnership, which has remediated more than 5,000 homes over the past 15 years. This year the BCCAP plans to help nearly 600 households in the county weatherize and conserve their energy and home heating costs due to a recent $5 million grant received from the federal government.

"For over 40 years, Bergen County Community Action Partnership has been the leader of energy conservation in Bergen County," said Bob Halsch, BCCAP Executive Director in a news release. "Community Action is excited about the Federal Government's increased investment in weatherization and commitment to reduce energy costs for residents in Bergen County."

If a borough residence qualifies based on annual income, a representative of the program will visit the property to conduct an energy audit.  Everything from the air conditioning units to the furnace and hot water heater are checked. The technician will also check for where air might be leaking out and driving up utility costs. Carbon monoxide and gas leaks are also checked for during the audit.

The technician will then report which if any repairs are recommended on the property. Insulation and weather stripping are two of the most common repairs but if the situation is severe enough, replacement of the furnace and boiler will also be completed. Halsch said most households see a 20 to 25 percent reduction in their heating costs once repairs have been made. In addition, the program is "green" using renewable and recycled materials whenever possible.

Borough residents should contact BCCAP at 201-968-0200 extension 7050 for more information or to obtain an application for the Weatherization Assistance Program.