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August 4, 2026
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026
The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in partnership with the Office of Grants Management, has awarded $1.5 million to four community organizations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Healthy, Efficient, Electrified, Climate-Adapted Pilot (HEECAP) Homes Grants Program.
The program awarded funding to the following organizations:
These grants will support the organizations in developing and testing new strategies to help income‑eligible residents:
- Create healthier indoor living environments.
- Improve home energy efficiency.
- Transition to all‑electric home systems.
The program also advances racial equity and social justice by strengthening and safeguarding housing for vulnerable residents.
The selected organizations were chosen for their innovative approaches to helping low- to moderate-income residents adapt to climate impacts through pilot initiatives that have the potential to scale into larger County programs.
“These grants empower trusted community partners to help households in need prepare for a changing climate while improving daily quality of life,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The innovative approaches funded through HEECAP will inform future County programs and expand access to cleaner, safer, and more affordable home energy systems.”
Launched in 2024, HEECAP provides grant funding for pre-weatherization, electrification, and climate-adaptation projects in low- to moderate-income residences. Through these efforts, the program is designed to lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve resident health, and reduce household energy costs.
“The HEECAP program represents a major step forward in our efforts to support residents most affected by the impacts of climate change,” said DEP Director Jennifer Macedonia. “By investing in pilot initiatives that strengthen home efficiency, health, and resilience, we’re building a foundation for long-term, community-centered climate solutions.”
Summary of Awardees and Projects:
The program includes electrification and climate adaptation in 24 housing units for individuals with severe autism and developmental disabilities. Aging fossil-fuel systems will be transitioned to high-efficiency electric systems, including heat pumps, cooling, ranges, and water heaters. This project enhances indoor air quality, reduces energy burdens, and ensures climate resilience for a vulnerable population, serving as a pilot for a scalable model for integrating disability services with the County’s climate goals.
