Arizona is at a crossroads of opportunity. As energy demands rise and sustainability becomes a priority, the Arizona Department of Housing’s (ADOH) longstanding Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) presents a unique avenue for workforce development and business growth. The WAP has been in play since 1977 and has been the driver for energy efficiency standards and practices to date. Not only does the WAP assist low-income households, but it is also one of the most innovative and fiscally responsible programs.
Since the development of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), specifically the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) in March 2022, and the approval of the ADOH AZ WAP BIL State Plan in August 2022, an additional $47M (which includes over $8M for Training and Technical Assistance alone, specifically for the WAP) has been allocated to Arizona’s WAP to help reduce high energy bills and relieve excessive energy burdens for low-income households. Already a proven success nationwide in improving energy efficiency and health & safety for millions of families, the WAP is more than just a community assistance effort—it’s a powerful platform for economic expansion and job creation within our state. The WAP program requires a Savings Investment Ratio of 1:1 or greater for each Energy Conservation Measure (ECM) installed. It is verified throughout the process, including a Quality Control Inspection (QCI) by a BPI Certified, highly trained, and experienced Individual after each completed project. The QCI is responsible for ensuring the National Standard Work Specifications (SWS) are met and all items being invoiced for are properly completed. The WAP looks at each structure as one whole system to ensure ALL items function at peak performance and do not negatively impact the resident(s) or structure in its entirety.
As temperatures rise and energy consumption is at an all-time high, the need for skilled weatherization Energy Auditors, Contractors, and many other variations of experienced and willing workforce has never been more urgent. For business leaders and decision-makers, the growing demand for energy-efficient homes signals a compelling opportunity to invest in weatherization contracting, training, and certification. Thanks to funding from the federal Department of Energy (DOE), Health and Human Services – Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HHS/DES LIHEAP), and our Arizona Utility Partners, this program makes it possible to expand Arizona’s pool of qualified weatherization professionals to meet the immediate needs of low-income households while laying the foundation for long-term economic, energy, and environmental sustainability.
Building a Skilled Workforce for a Growing Industry
The energy efficiency industry represents a dynamic and scalable market, with job roles spanning initial and final energy audits/inspections, insulation installation, HVAC services, plumbing, electrical, and much more. Businesses investing in this sector stand to benefit from increased demand for weatherization upgrades year-round (not just seasonally).
A key component of the ADOH WAP is its focus on workforce training and certification. Arizona has a dedicated WAP training facility accredited by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) to provide contractor training and certification for individuals committing to performing work in the WAP, equipping contractors with the skills needed to meet the federally mandated SWS. For businesses, this means an opportunity to tap into weatherization training dollars to upskill their teams and position themselves as leaders in energy efficiency solutions.
Additionally, weatherization jobs align closely with the clean energy sector, which is experiencing rapid growth. Forward-thinking businesses that invest in this training today can secure a foothold in a market poised for sustained expansion.
Economic Benefits for Communities and Companies
Participation in the weatherization industry offers a dual advantage: addressing the urgent needs of low-income households while creating lucrative business opportunities and advanced knowledge to correctly complete energy efficiency upgrades in the general construction market. According to a national evaluation, households can save an average of $372 or more annually through the program’s weatherization improvements. As contractors support these upgrades, they contribute to economic activity within their communities while further ensuring grid stability.
Funds allocated to weatherization flow directly into local economies, benefiting small businesses as contractors purchase supplies, tools, and services locally. This reinvestment supports economic growth and strengthens the foundation for additional job creation and community sustainability.
Moreover, addressing the skilled labor gap in weatherization creates pathways for workforce development. By offering apprenticeships, internships, or partnerships with training providers, businesses can attract and develop talent from underserved areas. This not only fills immediate labor needs but also strengthens ties to local communities, enhancing brand reputation and loyalty.
Health and Safety: A Value-Added Proposition
Recent evaluations of the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) have highlighted significant health benefits—a selling point for business leaders looking to differentiate their services. Studies have shown that weatherized homes reduce health risks such as asthma triggers caused by mold and dust. For contractors, this means offering services that save on energy costs and improve families’ well-being.
The benefits of weatherization extend beyond individual homes. Improving indoor air quality and reducing energy consumption/waste create a healthier, cleaner, economically stable, and energy-secure environment for all Arizonans. Businesses investing in weatherization services are not only delivering immediate value to families but also helping to build a sustainable, eco-friendly future for the state.
Seizing the Moment: A Call to Action for Business Leaders
Arizona’s clean energy landscape is ripe for innovation and investment, and the Weatherization Assistance Program provides a clear entry point for businesses. Whether you’re an established contractor looking to diversify or a business owner seeking new growth avenues, there is no better time than now.
Invest in workforce training, align with federal and locally funded weatherization initiatives, and position your business at the forefront of Arizona’s clean energy movement. Together, we can create a more sustainable future while driving economic growth and job creation across the state.
Get more information here and The Arizona Department of Housing Weatherization Website.
Travis Ekenberg is a seasoned professional and SME specializing in building science, building physics, and software development, particularly within the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). His experience includes designing and implementing software solutions tailored to the WAP’s unique needs, enhancing the program’s ability to deliver energy-efficiency services to low-income households. Travis has adeptly managed state and federally-funded energy efficiency initiatives, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while optimizing program outcomes.
