More than 300 homeowners and business owners will soon have the opportunity to reduce their energy consumption at a decreased cost.

Federal Way is partnering with SustainableWorks to launch a pilot program in March, offering energy-reducing resources to low- and moderate-income households and businesses. The assistance will come in various forms and will be provided at low or no cost. The project will create jobs, reduce the city’s carbon footprint and help individuals reduce their energy costs.

“We’ve really been able to combine a lot of resources to do this as part of a large project,” human services manager Lynnette Hynden said.

The undertaking includes energy audits, weatherization and retrofits. SustainableWorks, a nonprofit partner with Sound Alliance, received federal stimulus money. It plans to complete energy audits on eligible homes and businesses. An audit identifies ways a home or business can decrease energy use and save money, Sound Alliance volunteer Greg Vicars said. Energy-saving light bulbs, shower heads and faucet aerators will be installed as part of the audit, Vicars said. The audit costs $95 and is fully refundable if SustainableWorks is not able to recommend ways to decrease energy use.

Once the audit is complete, homeowners or business owners will choose retrofits. Replacing aluminum windows, weatherizing drafty doors and repairing or replacing inefficient heating systems or water tanks are all common ways to reduce energy use and costs, Vicars said. SustainableWorks will help coordinate the retrofits.

Depending on income and other factors, owners may either receive the upgrades free or be eligible for low-interest loans. Energy savings achieved could offset the cost of the loan.

The measures will be completed with approximately $751,000 in funding. SustainableWorks will bring $360,000 in federal stimulus money to the table. The city will contribute $241,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds. It will also dedicate roughly $150,000 from its King County Home Repair Program. The city hopes to continue the project in upcoming years.

“I’m hoping by the shear numbers of what we’re able to do, we can look at it as a reoccurring program, as long as the federal dollars will be remaining,” Hynden said.

The pilot program will focus on businesses and residences within a specific boundary area, Vicars said. Additionally, applicants must meet several qualifying factors to benefit from the energy-reducing effort. Age, income and profit guidelines apply and vary depending on what type of energy-saving measures are taken and which sources of funding are used to pay for those measures.

The city will host a public meeting designed to allow community leaders to learn more about the partnership, and suggest individuals and businesses that may qualify for the energy services.

“We’ve never combined these types of public funding before,” Hynden said. “It’s innovative, but it’s also complicated. That’s why we’re hoping for a big turnout at the workshop so we can explain things in person. Plus, we’re really hoping community leaders can help us identify the folks who would benefit the most from these energy savings.”

Learn more

• The meeting will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 12 at City Hall, 33325 8th Ave. S. For more information, contact Lynnette Hynden (253) 835-2650 or lynnette.hynden@cityoffederalway.com.

• Visit SustainableWork’s Web site at sustainableworks.com