Maine is set to receive more than $5 million in federal weatherization funding following advocacy earlier this year by a group of senators, including Sen. Susan Collins (R) and Sen. Angus King (I).
Although weatherization funding has traditionally been shielded from appropriations delays, by May, the federal government was far behind schedule in the 2026 funding process.
At the time, no instructions had been shared on how states could apply for grant funds set to become available July 1, though such documents are typically released the previous December.
Maine’s 2026 award, totaling $5,056,574, is roughly the same as the previous year’s.
This funding is being directed through several channels, including the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), Weatherization Readiness Fund (WRF), and State Energy Program (SEP).
Comprising Maine’s award are $4,094,134 through the WAP, $397,790 through the WRF, and $564,650 through the SEP.
Last year, Maine received $4,465,333 in WAP funds and $564,650 in SEP funds.
“These programs enjoy broad bipartisan support and play important roles in lowering energy bills and improving the safety and efficiency of homes in Maine,” Sen. Collins said in a statement.
“Following our bipartisan request, I am pleased that the Administration has released these funds so that state agencies can continue putting them to work in communities throughout our state,” Collins said.
Click Here to Read Sen. Collins’ Full Statement
This funding comes as part of a broader $369 million investment nationwide from the U.S. Department of Energy, with an additional $30 million for the WRF.
WAP provides states with funding to weatherize homes for low-income Americans, while SEP is designed to help states improve energy security and increase energy efficiency.
WRP funds support structural, health, and safety repairs required before otherwise income-eligible homes can receive weatherization services.
