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A Call for Equitable Electrification
Wards 7 and 8, which have the lowest median incomes, are often at the forefront of these challenges. These areas frequently contend with extreme poverty rates, soaring energy expenditures, a significant minority population, and reliance on government assistance programs and are populated by a high proportion of renters and those who have lower rates of college degree attainment.
OPC does not consider “equitable electrification” a buzzword; for the Office, it is a call to action that demands a fair distribution of implementation efforts and associated costs. This fairness extends to
all District communities, though there is a particular focus on marginalized communities that face the greatest barriers to and burdens of decarbonization efforts. In combating climate change, OPC has always believed equity must be at the heart of any solution. The residents of D.C. deserve easy access to clean, sustainable ways to power their homes, use public transportation, and drive without exacerbating climate change. However, the impact that environmental injustice has on vulnerable communities is alarming and demands immediate attention.
A Vision for a Just, Equitable, and Resilient Future
OPC’s study concluded with a set of priorities and recommended equity metrics aimed at not only the PSC but all District agencies. The recommendations ensure that the agencies keep these underserved communities top of mind when they make any electrification investments or program implementations, which is a vital step toward creating a more just, equitable, affordable, and resilient energy future for all D.C. residents.
OPC’s Journey to Protect Utility Consumers 55