Gov. Bob Riley has awarded $1.74 million to help Alabama’s low-income residents cut their utility bills by making their homes more energy efficient.

The Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program gives priority consideration to the elderly, those with disabilities and to low-income residents with children. Houses that qualify for assistance are modified to improve both energy efficiency and safety.

To identify the most cost-effective measures for each home, an energy audit is performed. Depending on the results, a home weatherization project may include extra insulation for the attic, walls and floor, sealing leaks in ductwork, repairs and tune-ups for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, and replacement of incandescent lights with highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.

Serving Butler County, the Organized Community Action Program received ,$155,602 (Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes and Pike) 334-566-1712.