Energy is essential for modern life, yet in the United States, its production, distribution, and consumption have historically been marked by inequities and disproportionate burdens on marginalized communities, often resulting in what is known as energy poverty.
The Black Energy Empowerment Council (BEEC) is a dedicated advocacy organization that addresses the unique energy challenges facing Black communities across the United States. We are committed to promoting energy equity by ensuring that Black Americans have fair access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy services. Unlike traditional environmental groups, BEEC focuses on the intersection of energy development and Black Americans’ specific economic and social needs.
We understand that energy policy doesn’t just impact health—it affects every aspect of daily life, from household bills and financial security to housing conditions and community resilience.
That’s why we focus on various energy issues, including affordability, consumer costs, economic impacts, and environmental sustainability. We aim to empower Black communities to advocate for their energy needs, helping them navigate the complex energy landscape and secure a better future.
Through education, advocacy, and policy engagement, BEEC works to ensure that Black Americans are not left behind as states across the nation work towards a more sustainable energy future. We amplify the voices of those most affected by energy insecurity and fight for policies that prioritize justice and equity. At BEEC, we believe that energy access is a fundamental right, and we are committed to building a future where Black communities have the power, resources, and resilience to thrive.
Mission
The Black Energy Empowerment Council is dedicated to breaking down barriers to energy accessibility and affordability in communities of color. We are dedicated to advocating for equitable energy policies that address the unique economic, environmental, and social challenges Black Americans face. Through inclusive decision-making, comprehensive education, and data-driven advocacy, we strive to provide the tools and knowledge necessary for individuals and families to understand and influence the energy policies that shape their lives. By telling the stories of our communities and addressing the intersection of environmental justice and energy development, we work to ensure that the benefits and burdens of energy are shared fairly.
Vision
We envision a future where all communities of color have full and equitable access to affordable and sustainable energy resources. Through our commitment to advocacy, education, and research, we aim to strengthen communities, drive economic, social, and environmental progress, and create a landscape where every household can thrive for an energy future that uplifts and unites us all.
Meet our Executive Director, Gail Adams
Gail is a compassionate and visionary leader dedicated to ensuring energy equity for Black communities. With a strong personal belief that access to affordable, reliable energy is not only a basic right but a path to economic and social empowerment, Gail has made it her mission to dismantle barriers that disproportionately affect communities of color. Her faith-driven commitment to advocacy and service is rooted in the understanding that energy justice is central to improving the quality of life, building resilience, and creating opportunities for underserved populations.
Gail’s leadership is deeply informed by her core values of community, integrity, and purpose. She believes in the power of storytelling to spark change and in engaging with individuals at the grassroots level to ensure their voices are central to policy discussions. Drawing from her strong spiritual foundation, she views her work as a calling to uplift and transform the lives of those most affected by energy insecurity. Through BEEC, Gail works tirelessly to create a future where energy justice is a reality for all, ensuring that Black communities can thrive and overcome their challenges.
Gail’s passion for energy was formed through her past career experiences, which include serving as the Government Affairs Officer at the Unified Area Command for the Macondo oil spill and as the Director of Intergovernmental and External Affairs at the Immediate Office of the Secretary, U.S. Department of the Interior in the Obama Administration. Gail also spent 10 years as the communications and external affairs vice president at EnerGeo Alliance, the global energy geoscience trade association. She has also served as a communications and stakeholder engagement consultant to other energy industry trade associations.