Electricity is a bare necessity, but Virginia's low-income and minority families pay much more for energy than the average household. As a result, low-income Virginians are making tough choices between energy and other necessities, like food, clothing, and transportation.
In fact, some low-income Virginians are paying up to three times more compared to higher-income households. The disparity is staggering, but together we can level the playing field.
This is why we are asking the Commission to level the playing field for low-income households by boosting utility-funded programs that can help cut our energy costs. Launching those programs will ease the financial burden on Virginia’s most vulnerable families.
We believe families should never have to choose between keeping the lights on or putting food on the table. Add your name and tell the Virginia State Corporation Commission to make energy equal for all Virginians!
To the Virginia State Corporation Commission (re: PUE-2016-00022):
Now is the time to bring equality to Virginia’s electricity.
Low-income single and multi-family households—and minority families—pay much more for energy as a percentage of overall income than average households, according to a recent study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
The disparity is staggering: some of these families now pay three times or more as compared to higher income households.
For many families, the decision to pay their energy bills often comes at the expense of other routine household necessities, such as buying food, clothing and transportation.
This is why we are asking the Commission to level the playing field for low-income households by boosting utility-funded programs that can help cut our energy costs. Launching those programs will ease the financial burden on Virginia’s most vulnerable families.
Additionally, we support these actions, so that Virginia can comply with the Clean Power Plan in a way that also lowers bills, creates jobs in the clean energy sector, and promotes healthier families of all income levels.
[your comment here]
Together, we can make efficient, affordable energy available to every Virginian.
Sincerely,
[your name]
