KEEP Helping Some Kansans Pay Heating Bills This Winter
With the winter heating season approaching, qualified Kansas homeowners can obtain low-interest loans to purchase energy efficient heating systems and to make other energy conservation home improvements.
Funds are available through the Kansas Housing Resource Corporation (KHRC). Specifically, it has formed a statewide initiative to promote energy conservation and reduce home heating costs. The initiative is the Kansas Energy Efficiency Program (KEEP).
KEEP was formed in 2006 as part of Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' Warm Homes Project.
It provides interest-free loans to qualified Kansas homeowners to make improvements to their homes to increase energy efficiency. KHRC funds half of the loan amounts, up to a maximum of $10,000. Total loan amounts could be higher as determined by the lender. KEEP has no income restrictions.
"This is a great way to help Kansans keep costs down, stay warm through winter and conserve energy," Sebelius said. "I hope many Kansas families consider this as an option."
Sunflower Bank, a family-owned bank with more than a dozen locations across Kansas, is the official lender for KEEP. KEEP will continue as funding is available.
Home improvements allowed under KEEP include:
Installing specified Energy Star furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, water heaters and ventilation systems.
Installing wall and floor insulation, new storm doors and windows, and weather-stripping.
Air sealing, duct work and the purchase of certain ENERGY STAR appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, dish washers and programmable thermostats.
Interested applicants apply directly to Sunflower Bank at www.sunflowerbank.com. The lender assists the applicant in completing required paperwork to apply for KEEP.
More information about KEEP is available at www.kshousingcorp.org/programs/KEEP.shtml.
Insert from Kansas Country Living magazine, November 2008 issue.