Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich and Local Climate Leaders Celebrate Federal Investments for Weatherization and Energy Efficiency Initiatives

(GREEN BAY, WI) – Today, Mayor Eric Genrich joined local climate leaders, contractors, and energy efficiency experts to showcase the impact of federal investments powering weatherization initiatives for residents of Green Bay. With support from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), Green Bay is leading efforts to reduce energy costs, improve home efficiency, prepare for the upcoming winter, and reach the benchmarks established in the city’s Clean Energy Plan.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) resources made possible by the BIL is a key initiative supporting low-income households in Green Bay by improving home insulation, upgrading heating systems, and reducing energy consumption. With $95 million allocated to Wisconsin, WAP allows eligible residents to save up to 30% on heating costs, providing critical assistance during the cold winter months. In addition, the IRA now makes it more affordable for Wisconsin families to purchase energy-efficient appliances – with rebates covering 50-100% of the cost of installing new electric appliances – including super-efficient heat pumps, water heaters, clothes dryers, stoves, and ovens.

Mayor Eric Genrich emphasized the importance of federal investments for Green Bay residents as they prepare for winter. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the people of Green Bay will see significant savings on their energy bills as we approach the colder months,” said Mayor Genrich. “These investments will not only help residents weatherize their homes, but they also support our city’s commitment to 100% clean energy by 2050, create good-paying jobs and make our community more resilient for the long term.”

Wisconsin has not been immune to the impacts of extreme weather fueled by climate change, including the devastating effects of this summer’s heat waves and intense rainfall, when Green Bay recorded over five inches of rainfall in just a few hours this July. Statewide, Wisconsin has seen a rise in billion-dollar climate disasters and temperature increases, underscoring the need for weatherization and clean energy programs to protect communities from escalating energy costs and unpredictable weather patterns.

Alderperson Joey Prestley, District 6, highlighted the health and environmental benefits of weatherization. “Energy efficiency programs like weatherization do more than reduce energy costs – they help improve the health of our residents and protect our environment,” said Prestley. “By cutting pollution and reducing energy waste, these initiatives ensure cleaner air and healthier living conditions for our community and reduce respiratory issues like asthma that are exacerbated by poor air quality. We can prioritize public health while also helping families prepare for a cold winter.”

Alexander Lange, a Wisconsin-based energy sustainability specialist, spoke on the consumer savings possible through these federal investments. “Weatherization programs are delivering much-needed savings for families across Green Bay by reducing energy costs for new homeowners by up to 21.6% on their utility bills and making homes more energy-efficient,” said Lange. “With these federal investments, residents can save an average of $651 annually on energy bills while ensuring their homes stay warm and efficient all winter. This support is crucial for helping families manage rising utility costs while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

Speakers closed by underscoring the long-term economic and environmental benefits of weatherization and clean energy initiatives, calling for continued federal support to help Green Bay achieve its clean energy goals.

Please find a full recording of the event[HERE].

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