Flagler County in the eastern part of Florida has recently joined a program funded by Florida PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) that aims to bring energy efficiency to low-income residents. 

According to The Daytona Beach News-Journal, the organization is currently accepting applications for contractors to participate in the initiative. Since many homeowners in the state can't afford to hire professionals to make necessary upgrades to their homes, Florida PACE will be providing loans so that proper weatherization solutions can be implemented. In order to determine the best way to improve a property, the program will also provide energy audits. 

There are a number of green technology improvements that will be available to residents, such as replacement windows, sealing and insulation, roof repair and the installation of wind-resistant shingles, says the source. 

According to Jonathan Schaefer, the Florida PACE program manager, the initiative may also help boost the local economy in addition to aiding residents in the county. If all goes as planned, the program will begin in the spring.

"I hope [arrangements] are totally in place before the Florida heat and hurricane season starts," said Flagler County commissioner and Florida PACE board member Barbara Revels. "They are working feverishly to get the contractors in place. It's always heartening to see these kinds of humanitarian efforts in action.

If you're interested in making energy-efficient upgrades to your home, it may actually be more affordable than you think – and the long-term savings almost always make it worthwhile. To get started, contact a home inspection contractor to request an energy audit. Additionally, as we've mentioned before on this blog, some key tax credits made it into the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 as part of the fiscal cliff deal, meaning that homeowners can save up to $500 on energy-efficient upgrades.