Qualified nonprofit organizations in South Carolina can now apply for Duke Energy Foundation grants aimed at preparing homes for energy efficiency upgrades. The grants, which can be as much as $20,000, are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits that already have established programs addressing health and safety repairs necessary before weatherization improvements can be made.
Many homes in the state cannot participate in weatherization programs due to pre-existing issues such as roof leaks, electrical hazards, mold, pest infestations or structural deficiencies. The new microgrants from the Duke Energy Foundation are intended to help address these barriers by supporting repairs like roof replacement, electrical and plumbing work, structural stabilization, mold remediation and pest control.
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.”
Eligible nonprofits must use the funds only for health and safety repairs directly related to making homes ready for energy efficiency upgrades. These grants do not cover direct weatherization or energy efficiency improvements themselves. Applications will be accepted through October 30.
Duke Energy has recently expanded incentives and eligibility for its residential and business customer energy efficiency programs in South Carolina. More details about these initiatives are available at https://www.duke-energy.com/SummerSavings.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support across communities served by Duke Energy customers. The company serves 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states and operates a significant natural gas business as well.
Further information is available at https://www.duke-energy.com/ and via the company’s social media channels.
