By Northwest Colorado Energy Initiative
In the debate surrounding energy and climate change, where discord often drowns out reason and cooperation, a rallying cry for unity emerges: the imperative to address energy poverty.
It transcends political divides, urging collective action toward a future where every individual can thrive in this world.
At the recent Energy and Environment Symposium in Garfield County, a statement from Liberty Energy’s publication, “Bettering Human Lives,” resonated profoundly: “Zero Energy Poverty by 2050 is a superior goal compared to Net Zero by 2050.”
This declaration reframes the discourse, shifting from the divisive “how” to the unifying “why.” While debates often revolve around the mechanics of transitioning to renewable energy, they overlook who stands to benefit or suffer from these changes. The transition from coal in Colorado raises valid concerns about energy affordability, reliability and security, yet the plight of those vulnerable to energy poverty remains overlooked.
In Colorado’s western slope counties, families grapple with rising inflation and energy costs, particularly in rural communities reliant on propane. Renters face barriers to adopting renewable energy technologies. As incentives dwindle and mandates expand, these families risk being left behind.
The global view is even more drastic. Worldwide, 2.3 billion people have no access to modern energy; therefore, burning wood, dung, grass, or charcoal to cook and heat every day. The fine particulate pollution emitted from these open (many times indoor) fires kills over 3 million people per year. Locally (in Colorado), approximately 84,000 households received over $135 million in federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds to help with utility bills in Fiscal Year 2022 (Oct 1, 2022-Sept 30, 2023). For reference, in FY2019, the total assistance to approximately 68,000 Colorado households was $54 million (this amount had been steady since FY2012). The energy poverty issue is only getting worse.
Energy poverty, defined as the inability to afford basic energy services for essential needs, disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating social inequalities and hindering economic progress. It is a silent crisis that undermines the foundation of societal well-being, perpetuating cycles of poverty and vulnerability.
Eradicating energy poverty becomes not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity to achieve a carbon-neutral future. With Colorado’s coal transition underway and living costs escalating, the risk of energy poverty looms larger. Shifting priorities and fostering inclusive discussions can prevent Coloradans from facing this fundamental deprivation.
The shift in priorities starts by recognizing that access to abundant, affordable and reliable energy is a fundamental human right. Zero Energy Poverty by 2050 offers a holistic framework that transcends partisan divides, focusing on tangible outcomes resonating across the political spectrum.
Achieving Zero Energy Poverty requires a multifaceted approach, integrating policy interventions, community engagement and innovative financing mechanisms. By investing in energy efficiency, renewable energy deployment and targeted assistance programs, we empower individuals and communities to break free from the cycle of energy poverty and move into a more resilient future.
Moreover, the pursuit of Zero Energy Poverty is not just a moral imperative but a pragmatic strategy for advancing community interests. Ensuring universal energy access unleashes untapped potential, drives economic growth, enhances productivity and fosters unity. It is an investment in human capital, paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable society.
The path toward Zero Energy Poverty by 2050 presents a challenge with the promise of substantial reward, offering a future where energy serves as a catalyst for unity and progress.
Zero Energy Poverty is the superior priority. Let’s transcend partisan divides and embrace a shared vision of a more sustainable world. Together, we can forge a path toward a brighter future, ensuring access to affordable energy is a fundamental right for all Coloradans.
* The Northwest Colorado Energy Initiative (NCEI), operating under the purview of AGNC, stands at the forefront of community-driven initiatives in Northwest Colorado. The advisory board members are: former Colorado State House Majority Leader and Colorado Mesa University (CMU) President Emeritus Tim Foster, former state Sen. Bob Rankin, Mesa County Commissioner Cody Davis, Garfield County Commissioner Mike Samson, Rio Blanco County Commissioner Doug Overton, former Moffat County Commissioner Ray Beck, and AGNC Executive Director Tiffany Dickenson. Former Town of Eagle Council Member Matt Solomon is the project manager.
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.