The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) has launched a statewide initiative to promote energy conservation and reduce home heating costs. The Kansas Energy Efficiency Program (KEEP) allows income-eligible homeowners to obtain low interest loans to purchase energy efficient heating systems and to make other energy conservation home improvements. Funding is $2 million, provided through Governor Kathleen Sebelius Warm Homes Project.

Who the program helps: Income-eligible, resident Kansas homeowners.

What the program does: The Kansas Energy Efficiency Program (KEEP) provides low interest loans to qualified Kansas homeowners to make improvements to their homes to increase energy efficiency. The interest free rate on KHRC funds translates into a lower blended rate compared to a traditional second mortgage loan. The program is for persons who have income at or below 100 percent of the state median income.

While total loan amounts may be higher as determined by the lender, KHRC funds will not exceed:

1. Fifty percent of the total loan.
2. One hundred percent of the approved improvements.
3. Or $7,500.00.

How the program works: Interested applicants apply directly to the lender, Sunflower Bank. The lender assists the applicant in completing the required paperwork to apply for KEEP.

Home improvements allowed under KEEP include:

• Installing specified ENERGY STAR furnaces, central air conditioners, heat pumps, water heaters and ventilation systems.
• Installing wall & floor insulation, new doors and windows and weather-stripping.
• Air sealing, duct work and the purchasing of certain ENERGY STAR appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, dish washers and programmable thermostats.

Certain restrictions apply to KEEP improvements.

For more information applicants may contact:

KHRC (1-800-752-4422)
http://www.kshousingcorp.org/programs/KEEP.shtml

or

 Sunflower Bank (888) 827-5564
 www.sunflowerbank.com