ODEC Partnership Secures Microsoft-Supported Grant to Expand Energy Efficiency Training for Manufactured Homes in Southern Virginia
Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC) announced today that a key workforce development partner has been awarded a $25,000 grant from Microsoft’s Datacenter Community Affairs team to support energy audit training in Southern Virginia, advancing ODEC’s Manufactured Homes Energy Efficiency Program and strengthening community-based energy solutions across cooperative territories.
The grant was awarded to FLIPP, Inc., a Virginia-based nonprofit specializing in workforce development required for energy audit, and weatherization skilled labor. Funding will support hands-on energy audit training programs that directly align with ODEC’s efforts to deliver no-cost energy-saving upgrades to manufactured and mobile homes—one of the most energy-intensive housing types in the region.
“Strong community partnerships are essential to delivering real, on-the-ground impact,” said Chris Cosby, President and CEO of ODEC. “This investment supports local workforce development while helping ensure our Manufactured Homes Program can reach more members with the greatest need—improving comfort, affordability, and energy reliability.”
The funding will help train licensed energy efficiency / weatherization contractors who can support ODEC’s Manufactured Homes Program, which provides eligible homeowners with energy-saving upgrades at no cost, including air sealing, insulation improvements, duct sealing, smart thermostats, and HVAC tune-ups. This program will translate to regional energy stability, reduce infrastructure stress, and significantly impact regional economic stability as it scales. These upgrades reduce energy use, lower monthly bills, and strengthen grid reliability during periods of high demand. FLIPP, Inc., a nationally recognized nonprofit and workforce training provider, will lead the training efforts. The organization has been recognized for its impact in sustainability, second-chance employment, and community-based energy solutions.
“This grant supports a diversified clean energy industry for Southern Virginia and increases the economic activity and community revitalization by supporting high-quality jobs that contribute to job retention,” said Raye Elliott, Executive Director, FLIPP. ODEC launched its Manufactured Homes Program in Maryland in 2025 and plans to formally announce the Virginia launch of the Manufactured Homes Program in 2026, building on this and other partnerships to scale energy efficiency improvements across cooperative communities statewide.
 - small.jpg)
