HOUSING PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM.

(a) The energy office is the supervising state agency for the housing partnership program.

(b) The energy office shall promote the efficient use of energy in Texas residential housing through grants, partnerships, and loans.

(c) Projects funded under this program may include:

(1) projects to demonstrate commercially available cost-effective energy-saving techniques and technologies;

(2) training and technical assistance in energy-efficient construction, design, or remodeling;

(3) projects to provide energy education workshops or seminars for consumers;

(4) financing for energy designs and improvements, energy-efficient appliances, and energy management systems; and

(5) funding of a weatherization assistance program through the Texas Department Of Housing and Community Affairs to benefit individuals of low income.

(d) The ultimate beneficiaries of the program shall be residential energy consumers, primarily targeting low-to-moderate income households.

(e) Nonprofit organizations, community action agencies, local governments, regional government councils, universities, utility companies, public housing authorities, community-based organizations, social service agencies, and other service-related organizations may serve as leads in establishing partnerships with the agency.

(f) The energy office may require grant recipients to match a grant in a ratio determined by the energy office.