In 2008, Governor Sarah Palin signed new legislation appropriating $360 million for home energy rebates and weatherization.

These energy programs dramatically expanded the need for skilled workers across the state to provide energy assessments and home improvements.

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, the Denali Commission and AWP combined efforts to jump start training for rural energy auditors and weatherization crews and developed a partnership for a new training system to supply workers for this major energy saving "green jobs" initiative.

Classes were held in the regional training hubs of King Salmon, Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, Bethel, Barrow and Kotzebue.AWP provided logistical support and training for 253 people from 54 communities across Alaska.