What is Energy Justice?

The goal of energy justice is to supply reliable, safe, and affordable sources of energy to communities that have historically been negatively affected by the energy system, while addressing the social, economic, and health burdens. Equitable distribution of and access to energy is essential for energy justice.  

Equality = Sameness. Promotes giving everyone the same things.

Equity = Fairness. Ensures people get access to the same opportunities.

Justice = Everyone can see the game without support because all the causes on inequality were addressed. There is no longer a systematic barrier.

What is Energy Insecurity?

Energy Insecurity is the inability to adequately meet household energy needs that lead to serious implications for your health, including physical, economic, and behavioral aspects

If you live in one of these communities, check out the Household electrification incentives calculator from Rewiring America to find out what energy incentives are available to you.

Climate Justice Hours - Listen, Learn, and Connect

In coordination with the Climate Justice Specialist within the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), Climate Justice Hours have been set up to meet Rhode Island residents located in both our urban and rural areas to understand community perspectives and how that community perspective may be incorporated in the early stages of state, municipal, and/or city planning, development, and implementation. Additionally, Climate Justice Hours have been a platform to educate community about programs and opportunities within Rhode Island.

Greg Ohadoma, Energy Justice Manager with the RI OER, wants to hear from community voices, organizers, and environmental justice advocates about the pressing climate change issues that have affected Rhode Island communities. This is an ongoing conversation to inform the work of Greg, relevant organizations, and to connect them with the most important perspectives of Rhode Islanders... YOURS!

Listen to the successes and failures of past and existing programs and policies of our respective agencies. Listen to the past histories and present realities of community-focused entities who have been harmed or have benefited from programs or policies.

Learn what values are shared across different stakeholders and interest groups. Learn what support, resources, or information is needed to resolve unaddressed issue(s) or legacy harm(s).

Connect with all persons who have shared values in conservation, education, environmental justice, a just transition, etc. Connect with all persons who have the expertise, capacity, or knowledge of a subject area with persons who need that support.

Questions may be directed to Greg Greg.Ohadoma@energy.ri.gov.

Click here to register for the Climate Justice Hour, Understanding Energy Efficiency & Weatherization on 2/28 at 5:00pm.

Related Links

https://www.sierraclub.org/energy-burden-calculator

https://www.energy.gov/scep/slsc/lead-tool

https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/en/#3/33.47/-97.5