Understanding Energy Cost Burden in New York City - Spring

Advisor: Adrian Hill

Team Members: Olga Gavryliuk, Lindsey N. Walter, Sidhaant Shah, Alexandria T. Henke, Emily R. Poorvin, Amanda B. Rickert, Christina Paton, Wanjin Wang, Jenna H. Behrendt, Julie Banerjee, Jenna M. Lewein, Rachel Patterson

High energy cost burdens disproportionately affect low-income households in New York City, forcing vulnerable residents to spend a significant portion of their income on energy expenses. Energy cost burden is influenced by income, housing characteristics, energy efficiency, and geographic location. Analysis reveals that households below the poverty line face significantly higher energy cost burdens than higher-income households, contributing to financial instability and increased economic inequality. Geographic analysis shows particularly high burdens in parts of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, highlighting disparities in energy affordability.

Reducing energy cost burden requires targeted policy interventions that improve energy efficiency and provide financial assistance. Expanding efficiency programs, providing targeted subsidies, and improving housing infrastructure would reduce energy costs and improve economic stability for vulnerable populations. Addressing structural inefficiencies in housing and expanding access to efficiency programs would provide long-term solutions while supporting climate goals. Improving energy affordability is critical to ensuring equitable implementation of climate policies and protecting vulnerable communities during the energy transition.

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