As we experience record-breaking heatwaves and devastating floods, it’s evident that climate change is altering our world in unprecedented ways. The urgency of addressing these challenges cannot be overstated. However, there's a silver lining in the form of proactive measures being taken locally to combat these issues and foster climate resilience. Our local government is at the forefront, championing initiatives that focus on weatherization and energy efficiency improvements to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Residential energy use contributes to approximately 20% of annual greenhouse gas emissions in U.S. households. The recent lack of progress towards the Paris Agreement's 2025 targets poses a significant risk to families, emphasizing the need for urgent action. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, upgrading our buildings to improve energy efficiency could cut greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2050. This statistic highlights a powerful opportunity for change right at our doorstep.

I had the privilege of participating in a press conference with Easton Mayor Sal Panto and City Councilman Ken Brown, where we discussed how our local governments are addressing climate change through swift, equitable, and large-scale weatherization efforts. The focus is on providing the most vulnerable communities with much-needed support. Communities of color, single-parent families, and older adults on fixed incomes are disproportionately affected by climate change. These groups often face higher energy costs and live in homes with outdated heating systems and poor insulation. Insulation, leading to significant health and financial burdens.

To address these challenges, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act are pivotal. These laws allocate essential funding for weatherization improvements, which not only lower energy use but also reduce airborne pollutants and CO2 emissions. On a broader scale, weatherization offers financial benefits and alleviates psychological stress, addressing both environmental and justice issues. By making weatherization accessible to low-income families, we ensure they don’t have to choose between upgrading their homes and paying for basic necessities like food and housing.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) is making these crucial upgrades possible for renters and homeowners who otherwise might delay or forgo them due to cost. In Northampton County, for example, Community Action Lehigh Valley has already weatherized 17 homes, with an average investment of $8,200 per home. The allocation of $1.8 million to the Lehigh Valley underscores the commitment to making significant strides in this area.

Estimates from Data for Progress reveals that about 280,000 occupied units in Pennsylvania have moderate to severe deficiencies. Many low-income families live with uncomfortable conditions due to mold, drafty homes, leaky roofs, and inefficient heating and cooling systems. This not only impacts their quality of life but also exacerbates energy insecurity, disproportionately affecting Black and brown communities, single-parent families, and older adults on fixed incomes. 

Weatherization is more than a technical fix; it’s a comprehensive solution that combats climate change, shields families from extreme temperatures and high energy bills, and reduces the broader social impacts of inadequate housing. Improvements lead to healthier living environments and lower energy costs, reducing cases of asthma, missed work and school days, and the anxiety associated with extreme weather conditions.

The progress we’re making is just the beginning. Thanks to our federal leaders, including President Joe Biden, Congresswoman Susan Wild, and Senator Bob Casey, historic bipartisan legislation is paving the way for a clean energy future. It is crucial that we continue to support and build upon these investments, ensuring they remain effective and equitable.

In Northampton County, we are committed to ensuring that this funding is utilized wisely. As the Northampton County Controller, I assure you that we are dedicated to monitoring and supporting these initiatives to ensure they achieve positive outcomes for our community. The funds from the Inflation Reduction and Jobs Acts are vital for pushing back against climate change and enhancing the quality of life for our residents, ensuring safer and healthier homes for all.