Without Environmental Justice, the Renewable Energy Transition Will Leave Low-Income and BIPOC Communities Behind

Abstract

As extreme weather events become more common in the United States due to the worsening effects of climate change, access to utilities like electricity and water will be continually strained. Blackouts and intermittent utility interruptions impact low-income and communities of color most negatively. While renewable energy technologies promise alleviation of emissions and pollution, high cost and a lack of equitable energy infrastructure make it harder for low-income and communities of color to access renewable energy benefits. I propose a series of policies to address the cost barriers of renewable energy, improve reliability and access to power grids, and standardize household weatherization for people from all communities.