Toledo, Ohio - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09),Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, announced that Ohio has been awarded $4,301,375 in federal funding through the US Department of Energy's Sustainable Energy Resources for Consumers (SERC) program. This funding, made possible by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support two innovative projects aimed at increasing clean energy access and improving energy efficiency for low-income households in Ohio's Appalachian region and the City of Toledo.

The projects will be spearheaded by the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development (COAD) and Neighborhood Housing Services of Toledo, Inc. (NHST). Together, these initiatives will bring cutting-edge energy solutions to some of Ohio's most underserved communities, helping to reduce energy costs and enhance home safety.

"This substantial investment in Ohio's clean energy future underscores our commitment to ensuring that all communities have access to the benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency," said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). "The projects funded by these awards will not only lower energy bills for working families in our region, but they will also create jobs and contribute to a healthier environment for future generations."

Project Highlights:

1. Solar for Ohio's Appalachian Region (SOAR): COAD will use the award to bridge the affordability gap for low-income Appalachian residents by installing pre-fabricated, pole-mounted solar arrays at 75 homes. These solar installations will be independent of the homes' footprints, providing a reliable and cost-effective source of clean energy. The SOAR project builds on existing weatherization efforts in the region, ensuring that the benefits of solar energy reach those who need it most.
2. Toledo Green & Healthy Homes Program: NHST will integrate SERC funds with its ongoing Weatherization Assistance and Healthy Homes programs. This initiative will serve 180 Toledo households, combining solar PV system installations with necessary electrical upgrades, high-efficiency air source heat pumps, electric water heaters, and enhanced insulation. These improvements will help reduce energy consumption and improve overall home safety and comfort.

Under SERC funding guidelines, 40% of the overall benefits will flow to disadvantaged communities. The awarded projects will play a crucial role in meeting this goal, bringing much-needed clean energy and energy-saving technologies to Ohio's Appalachian region and Toledo. Congresswoman Kaptur remains committed to advocating for investments that support Ohio's transition to a clean energy future while ensuring that no community is left behind.

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