Many families in Georgia are forced to choose between paying for adequate heating or cooling and groceries. Low-income families in particular spend a disproportionate amount of their income on energy bills. These high energy bills increase financial instability for low-income families, who are overwhelmingly people of color in Georgia, can lead to or worsen health problems, and trap people in a cycle of poverty.

The good news is that energy efficiency and community solar can help reduce the burden of high energy bills, creating healthier and more comfortable living environments. Yet families who need clean, affordable energy solutions the most are often least able to access these technologies. To address these concerns, Georgia Watch, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Southface produced Keeping the Lights On, a consumer resource offering information about current options available for families struggling with high energy bills. It includes policy recommendations to expand access to energy efficiency and community solar to all Georgians.

In connection with the paper, Georgia Watch and partners will be hosting an Energy Equity Forum on Saturday, October 7. Hosted at the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission in Camilla, Georgia, this free forum will engage community members interested in reducing their energy bills and provide information about practical energy-saving changes that families can make in their homes. The forum will bring together community members with community leaders, utility representatives, advocates, and policymakers to discuss how to create equitable and accessible programs for Southwest Georgia communities experiencing high energy bills.

If you are interested in attending or have questions, please email energyequityforum10717@gmail.com. Space is limited, so RSVP now to reserve your spot!

Click here to RSVP!