(1) The department will contract with appropriate community-based organizations in the state to provide outreach and to receive and process applications for the low income energy assistance and weatherization programs.

(a) In providing outreach, the local contractor performs specified activities designed to inform all potentially eligible households in the contract area of the existence of and the benefits available under the low income energy assistance program. Such application may also constitute an application for weatherization.

(b) In receiving and processing applications, the local contractor determines household eligibility and benefit award under the rules contained in this chapter.