The U.S. released more funds from the stimulus package today destined for weatherization programs across 15 states, the head of the Energy Department, Steven Chu said today in Ohio.

Funds announced today total $453 million and represent 40 percent of all the budget allocated for weatherization programs. In early March the Department of Energy placed the first 10 percent of the funds and hopes to give the remaining 50 percent when states meet requirements of the Recovery Act, including reporting, oversight, and accountability milestones.

Earlier this year, the DOE committed to speed up deployment of the stimulus package funds to help boost the economy by creating green jobs,' while boosting clean energy and energy efficient programs.

Weatherization programs involve making low-income families' homes more energy efficient to save on energy bills.

The approximate cost for weatherizing each home is $6,500, according to the DOE. However families can save about 32 percent annually in heating bills and hundreds in overall energy bills.

The funds are also expected to generate jobs. States are required to spend 20 percent of the total funds to employ and train workers, the DOE said today.

States receiving funds are: California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Maryland, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, and West Virginia.