Energy Burden
Definition
The percentage of household income spent on home energy costs (electricity, gas, fuel oil). Energy burden is a modest share of income for median-income households but far larger for very low-income households. High energy burden forces families to choose between heating/cooling and other necessities, contributes to utility disconnections, and affects health (inability to cool homes during heat waves or heat homes during cold).
Louisville Context
Energy burden in Louisville is far heavier for low-income households, particularly in West Louisville neighborhoods with older, inefficient housing. Winter heating costs and summer cooling costs create seasonal crises for households unable to afford temperature control. LG&E disconnects thousands annually for non-payment.
Why It Matters
High energy burden is health crisis and economic injustice. Families can’t afford to heat homes in winter or cool homes during dangerous summer heat, causing preventable illness and deaths. Children living in homes without reliable heat/cooling miss school and suffer health impacts. Energy burden perpetuates poverty by consuming income that could go toward food, medicine, or saving.
My Proposal
I will expand Louisville’s energy efficiency and weatherization programs (funded within $1.13 billion budget) providing home improvements reducing energy costs 30-40% for low-income households. I’ll advocate for LG&E to expand assistance programs and implement percentage-of-income payment plans. My Community Wellness Centers will help residents access utility assistance and weatherization programs.