Summary
Google announced a $10 million program for energy innovation and affordability in West Virginia. Its first $1 million is directed to work in six counties, including repairs that can help eligible families qualify for state energy rebates.
Google has announced a $10 million Energy Impact Program for energy innovation and affordability in West Virginia. The company says the first $1 million will go to the West Virginia Office of Energy for work across Putnam, Kanawha, Cabell, Mason, Jackson and Lincoln counties.
Part of the funding is intended to address a practical barrier to home energy upgrades: some older homes need basic repairs, such as fixing roof leaks or outdated wiring, before they qualify for the state’s Home Energy Rebate program. Google says the funding will cover those repairs so qualifying families can access rebates intended to lower monthly utility bills.
Removing a barrier to household upgrades
The announcement links essential home repairs with access to energy improvements. A household may be unable to move ahead with an upgrade if the home first needs basic work to meet eligibility requirements. Funding those repairs could allow more qualifying families to reach the state rebate program.
Google also says local governments and nonprofits will receive funding through the EECBG program for lighting, insulation and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades. The company says resulting utility savings can be redirected to local services.
Part of a longer-term local investment
Google describes the initiative as an early step in its long-term investment in communities near its planned Buffalo data center campus. The announcement directs people to energywv.org to check eligibility and apply.