Resiliency in Uncertain Times: Making Energy Efficiency Equitable and Accessible for Low-Income Georgians

In 2016, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) served 129,446 families in need of immediate assistance with their energy bills in Georgia. It is no secret that lower-income families spend a larger percentage of their income on energy bills than higher income families. As a result, struggling families sometimes find themselves forced to choose between electricity and other basic necessities, such as groceries or healthcare. This high energy burden often leaves lasting negative impacts on health and financial well-being, trapping families in a cycle of poverty. With LIHEAP and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) under constant threat from federal budget cuts, it is imperative that policymakers, advocates, utility leaders, and energy efficiency leaders evaluate equitable measures to help low-income families reduce their energy consumption. Accessible energy efficiency programs are especially needed in Georgia, a state with a poverty rate higher than the national average and where many cash-strapped families struggle with high energy costs. Additionally, the U.S. National Climate Assessment predicts Georgians will face an increasing number of extremely hot days due to climate change, putting more pressure on the grid and making energy efficiency even more essential. This paper will discuss four benefits of energy efficiency that can enable families in Georgia to become more resilient: lower energy costs, financial stability, improved individual health, and improved community health. Finally, this paper will discuss how the following best practices can make energy efficiency more equitable and accessible: on-bill financing tariffs, community development block grants, and workforce development.