DENVER -- The American Recovery and Reinvestment act will have a big impact on Colorado. The state is slated to receive almost $80 million to help low-income households save energy and become more energy efficient.

"I don't think you really think about all the different areas where your house might be losing heat, or areas where you can save," said a Denver woman who asked not to be identified, who was having her home weatherized.

The resident is having a complete energy audit and weatherization done by Sun Power -- a nonprofit organization that helps low-income residents reduce energy consumption in their home.

"(Homeowners) can save anywhere from 10 to 15 percent," said Chuck Temple of Sun Power.

The homeowner's attic got fresh insulation, her crawl-space lined with a fiberglass blanket, weather stripping added to her doors, a new furnace installed and new compact fluorescent light bulbs. Everything was done at no cost.

"If you qualify, this service can be provided to you free of charge," said Temple.

With money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Colorado will be able to help out close to 12,000 households annually, instead of the 4,000 it assists now. The $80 million will be split between these eight Colorado agencies:

Northeastern Colorado Association of Local Governments

Pueblo County Department of Human Services

Housing Resources of Western Colorado

Northwest Colorado Council of Governments

Longs Peak Energy Conservation

Arapahoe County – Weatherization

Sun Power, Inc. (Denver, Jefferson Counties)

Energy Resource Center

"The weatherization money is 40 times the amount of money we have been able to spend year to year on weatherization," said Gov. Bill Ritter. "It is a great way to think about energy efficiency and making energy cost less for people who live at the margin."

"I think it is great," said the homeowner. "As a country we are trying to do more to be more efficient, energy efficient and reduce our footprint."

By making the home more energy efficient, the homeowner saves money, which she can then spend in our community.

The stimulus money also means more jobs for the state.

"We are ramping up," said Temple. "(Sun Power) is expanding. We are bringing in more help; we are creating more green collared jobs. We are very excited, it is a great program."