Qualified nonprofit organizations in South Carolina can now apply for grants from the Duke Energy Foundation to support programs that prepare homes for energy efficiency upgrades. The grants, which can be as much as $20,000, are intended to help nonprofits address health and safety issues that prevent many households from participating in weatherization initiatives.
Duke Energy notes that a significant number of homes across the state are unable to benefit from existing weatherization programs due to problems such as roof leaks, electrical hazards, mold, pest infestations or structural deficiencies. These issues must be resolved before energy efficiency improvements can take place. The new microgrants aim to strengthen programs that tackle these necessary repairs.
The grant opportunity is open only to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with established health and safety home repair programs. Funding must be used specifically for repairs directly related to making homes ready for weatherization and energy efficiency improvements. Eligible uses include roof repair or replacement, electrical work, plumbing repairs, structural stabilization, mold remediation and radon mitigation, as well as pest control measures.
Applications are being accepted until Oct. 30. Nonprofits interested in applying can find more information and submit their applications at duke-energy.com/SummerSavings.
Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president, said: “Recent legislative efforts have made it clear that South Carolina’s leaders realize the importance of energy efficiency and weatherization programs in moderating energy bills and the growing demand on the electric grid. As Duke Energy looks to new ways of expanding these offerings, we also understand the need to help address the underlying safety issues in homes that are barriers to these efforts.”
Duke Energy has increased incentives and broadened eligibility for several of its energy efficiency and demand response programs in South Carolina with the goal of helping customers save money on their utility bills.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million each year in philanthropic support across communities served by Duke Energy customers. This funding comes from company shareholders.
Duke Energy is one of America’s largest energy holding companies and serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states while also providing natural gas service in five states. The company continues its transition toward cleaner generation sources including renewables and is investing heavily in grid modernization projects.
More details about Duke Energy’s community initiatives can be found at duke-energy.com or through its social media channels.
