Energy burden and the need for integrated low-income housing and energy policy

TitleEnergy burden and the need for integrated low-income housing and energy policy
Publication TypeJournal Article
AuthorsHernández, Diana, and Stephen Bird
JournalPoverty & Public Policy
Volume2
Issue4
Pagination668-688
ISSN1944-2858
AbstractUsing detailed sociological and public health qualitative interview data, we demonstrate that energy poverty is more pervasive, and results in a greater energy burden for low-income tenants, than many policymakers would assume. This is due in part to a lack of funding, policy noncoordination, and a lack of understanding of the social and economic benefits of energy conservation, energy education, and flexible utility billing policies. Examining LIHEAP, weatherization, utility, and housing assistance policies, we suggest that a coordinated, regional approach to home energy and housing policy that integrates programs in each area will provide a more coherent policy solution.
DOI10.2202/1944-2858.1095