Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) is announcing the conclusion of its Manufactured Home Replacement Program, an initiative that helped provide safer, more energy-efficient homes for local residents who needed it most.
Originally launched to assist members living in older, deteriorating manufactured homes, the program offered support in replacing these units with modern, energy-efficient models. Over its course, the program made a real difference in the lives of participants, many of whom faced housing needs and lacked access to the resources required to make such a transition on their own.
The program initially relied heavily on state and federal funding to support replacement home financing. However, access to program funds has become increasingly limited, with state funding now largely unavailable and less accessible.
“Through this program, we were able to help improve living conditions for some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Lisa McMeen, Vice President of Administration at UEC. “It also provided measurable energy savings by removing older, inefficient manufactured homes.”
While the program has delivered strong results and positive outcomes, UEC has chosen to shift its focus toward alternative strategies that allow us to maximize the impact of our energy efficiency investments and reach a broader segment of our membership. One such initiative is our innovative energy-saving loan program, which supports members making energy-efficient upgrades—such as heat pumps, windows, and insulation—to their homes. Since its launch in 2019, this on-bill, low-interest program has helped more than 300 families improve their comfort and reduce energy costs.
“It has been a heartwarming experience to help a few of our members in a life changing way, however at this time we are redirecting our energy efficiency dollars to impact a larger number of members,” said McMeen. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make this program impactful - from local partners to participating residents.”
UEC will continue to explore new ways to support housing and community development efforts. For ways you can partner to help improve the quality of life for those in our communities please contact UEC’s Energy Efficiency department at (541) 567-6414 or visit our website www.umatillaelectric.com.