FREDERICK, Md. - In celebration of Earth Day, the Division of Energy and Environment is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $571,948 from the Maryland Energy Administration as part of its Low-to-Moderate Income Grant Program. These funds will support the Power Saver Retrofits Program, which works to improve home energy efficiency for Frederick County residents.

"Improving our energy efficiency makes good environmental sense, and it makes good economic sense," County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. " I am excited the Power Saver Retrofits funding will help our low- and moderate-income families to reduce their home energy use and, by extension, reduce their monthly utility costs."

The Division of Energy and Environment is responsible for administering the program and will work with local non-profit organizations to assist applicants in accessing the benefits. Via participation in Power Saver Retrofits, eligible households can receive no-cost home improvements such as:

• Attic insulation.
• Crawl space, window and duct sealing.
• Increased bathroom ventilation.
• Energy efficient light bulbs.
• Upgrades of heating and cooling systems.

The Power Saver Retrofits Program helps reduce energy usage by providing eligible households with free energy-efficient upgrades that can significantly lower their monthly bills. These improvements also help reduce emissions from power plants by decreasing the amount of electricity used in our region. 698 households have participated since the program's inception and the awarding of the Maryland Energy Administration's new grant funding will ensure that even more families can benefit, and the Division of Energy and Environment can continue its mission of creating a more sustainable future for Frederick County.

"This grant ensures we can continue our work helping local households and will provide much-needed assistance for up to 78 local families," said Lindsey Humphrey, Program Administrator for the division. "We are committed to helping Frederick County residents reduce energy costs - but it's not just about saving money on utilities. This work also improves quality of life and supports environmental sustainability. That's a win for everyone in our community!"

The division is currently seeking qualified applicants for the Power Saver Retrofits program and encourages anyone interested to apply soon, as funding is limited and applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. For more information about eligibility requirements or how to apply, please visit the program website at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/PSR, or contact Lindsey Humphrey at [email protected].