What is HEC2?
HEC2 is Energize Delaware’s Home Energy Counseling & Check-Up program. This program marries the strengths of the former Community Energy Center Program with some innovative ideas from the specialized needs of low-to-moderate-income Delaware residents.
HEC2 provides income-eligible Delaware residents with access to educational outlets, exclusive resources and home services – at NO COST to them – so they can better manage their energy use. Benefits available through HEC2 include utility bill payment assistance, weatherization services, energy-related home repair services and more.
Who is eligible?
The HEC2 program is available to Delaware residents 80% below median income (low-moderate income).
FY 2018 Low-Income (80%) Limit (LIL) |
|||||||
1 Person |
2 Person |
3 Person |
4 Person |
5 Person |
6 Person |
7 Person |
8 Person |
44,250 |
50,550 |
56,900 |
63,200 |
68,250 |
73,300 |
78,350 |
83,400 |
Income information is checked three times throughout the process: it is requested on the intake form, confirmed prior to scheduling the Home Energy Check-Up visit, and verified by reviewing certain documentation during the visit. Each applicant must provide a photo ID and at least one utility bill, then achieve eligibility one of two ways:
Automatic Qualification |
OR |
Qualification by Proof of Income |
Applicant must provide a recent award letter from one of the following: · Food Stamps · WIC · LIHEAP · TANF/GA · Medicaid |
|
Applicant must provide a recent copy of each applicable document: · Two pay stubs · W2 · Previous year’s tax return · SSI/SS award letter · Unemployment |
What services are offered as part of HEC2?
In-Home Energy Check-Ups |
In-Home Energy Check-ups are a fast, easy way to make homes more energy efficient and help residents start saving immediately. An Energy Advisor comes to the home, checks the condition of its insulation, heating and air-cooling system, lighting, appliances and more, then outlines simple ways the resident can save energy and money. After the Check-Up, the resident receives a customized report summarizing the Energy Advisor’s findings, suggested improvements, recommended energy-saving programs. The Energy Advisor will also install energy-saving products, such as: · LED light bulbs · Faucet aerators · Efficient-flow fixed showerheads · Water heater pipe insulation
|
Energy Conservation Workshops |
Energy Conservation Workshops cover the basics of home energy efficiency and provide information about the energy-saving resources available to residents. These no-cost courses can be tailored to a corporate, community and/or educational setting. At the end of each workshop, attendees receive a weatherization kit (valued at $30), which includes: · LED light bulb · LED nightlight · Caulk and caulk gun · Rope caulk · Window insulation kit
|
One-on-One Energy Counseling |
One-On-One Energy Counseling helps residents review their energy costs and offers ways to lower their energy usage, in an effort to reduce the need for future energy assistance. Available at various “Pop-Up” counseling locations and communities, each session includes: · A discussion about the impact of the resident’s utility bill on their overall household budget · Low-cost and no-cost tips for improving home energy efficiency · (If necessary) Contact with the utility to resolve issues such as delinquencies, disconnects, budget billing and/or make payment plan arrangements |