Percent of Households Burdened by Energy Costs

ACS 1-year estimates are based on data collected over one calendar year, offering more current information but with a higher margin of error. ACS 5-year estimates combine five years of data, providing more reliable information but less current. Both are based on probability samples. Some racial and ethnic categories are suppressed to avoid misleading estimates when the relative standard error exceeds 30%. Data Source: American Community Survey (ACS) 1- & 5-Year Estimates Why this Matters Household access to energy is central to maintaining health and well-being through heating, cooling, lighting, cooking, internet, and more. Energy cost burden can keep families from escaping poverty. High costs can lead to households forgoing food and medicine or keeping their homes at unsafe temperatures. Racial residential segregation, housing discrimination, and socioeconomic disparities have prevented many Black communities and people of color from accessing newer, energy-efficient homes. This, alongside higher rates of economic insecurity, increases BIPOC populations' risk of facing energy cost burdens. The District's Response To address disparities in energy affordability, the District Government offers a number of Utility Affordability Programs. The District’s Weatherization Assistance Program helps lower energy burden by improving the energy efficiency of homes. District-supported solar power programs for renters and homeowners can reduce energy costs by producing renewable energy on site.