Advocating for Energy Equity and Empowerment in Black Communities

Together, We’re Making a Difference!

WHO
WE
ARE

The Black Energy Empowerment Council (BEEC) advocates for communities of color to access affordable energy, recognizing the disproportionate burdens from existing and proposed energy policies at the local, state, and federal levels. By engaging in multifaceted strategies, BEEC pushes for equitable policies and practices, championing energy justice to ensure vulnerable communities are not left behind as states across the nation work towards a more sustainable energy future. By amplifying the voices of those most affected, BEEC ensures marginalized communities can actively shape tomorrow’s energy landscape.

The Unseen Costs of Energy Poverty: How Communities of Color Bear the Brunt

Energy poverty, the lack of access to affordable and reliable energy, is a pervasive issue in the United States, disproportionately impacting communities of color. This inequality stems from a complex interplay of systemic problems that continue to plague our nation, creating a cycle that perpetuates poverty and undermines well-being.

Our Core Values

Equity and Energy Justice.

 We believe energy affordability and accessibility are fundamental and essential for community well-being.

Community Empowerment.
We prioritize community engagement and leadership in shaping solutions that meet local needs.

Collaboration.
We foster partnerships with organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders to amplify our collective impact.

Sustainability.
We advocate for energy technologies and practices that provide energy access and affordability, protect the environment, and promote economic resilience.

Innovation.

We embrace innovative approaches to address the challenges of energy affordability and accessibility for communities of color.

The Unequal Burden

Higher energy burdens

Communities of color often face higher energy burdens, meaning they spend more of their income on energy costs. This is due to factors like residing in older, less energy-efficient homes, living in areas with higher energy prices, and facing job insecurity and lower wages. Further, many communities of color lack access to energy efficiency programs, leaving them trapped in inefficient homes with high energy bills.

Educational disadvantages

Energy access is crucial for optimal learning. Energy insecurity, which affects minority communities at a disproportionately higher rate, can lead to unreliable internet, poor lighting, and uncomfortable learning environments at home. These factors hinder students' ability to focus, complete assignments, and stay engaged, further widening the educational achievement gap.

Health disparities

Health effects around energy extend beyond asthma, affecting health in numerous ways. Without access to reliable electricity, families can experience inadequate heating in winter, leading to respiratory illness, especially among children and the elderly. At the same time, lack of air conditioning in summer exacerbates heat-related issues. Limited access to clean water and refrigeration also endangers food safety and hygiene, creating unsafe living conditions, increasing mental stress, and worsening chronic illnesses—impacts that disproportionately affect Black communities already facing energy insecurity.

Economic vulnerability

High energy costs disproportionately impact Black communities. A larger portion of their income is spent on utility bills, leaving less disposable income for necessities like housing, healthcare, transportation, and education. This financial strain perpetuates cycles of poverty, limiting access to essential services and reducing opportunities for economic mobility.

Why BEEC? Because Your Voice Matters!

Share your energy story with BEEC and help us emPOWER change. Without your story, we can’t advocate for change. We need you because your voice is the key to powering a more equitable energy future.