# Energy Equity Act of 2021

This bill creates a new office within the Department of Energy specifically focused on making energy more affordable and accessible for low-income and minority communities. The government would establish an Office of Energy Equity, headed by a director who would work to reduce energy costs in neighborhoods that have historically been left behind and help residents access energy-saving improvements like better insulation, efficient appliances, and solar panels.

The bill recognizes that some communities pay more for energy or have less access to energy-saving upgrades than others. The new office would coordinate across different government agencies to develop programs that tackle this problem. It would focus on three main goals: promoting environmental justice strategies, bringing down energy bills in underserved neighborhoods, and making energy conservation upgrades available to people who currently can't afford them. The bill defines "underserved or disadvantaged communities" as low-income areas and communities of color, plus any other neighborhoods that face disproportionate economic, social, or environmental challenges.

To make this happen, the bill authorizes $20 million per year for five years to fund the office and its programs. This money would support things like weatherization projects, renewable energy installations, and education programs that help residents understand how to save energy. Essentially, the bill aims to ensure that the benefits of energy efficiency and clean energy aren't just available to wealthy neighborhoods, but reach people who struggle most with high energy bills.

Energy Equity Act of 2021

Rush, Bobby L.

Energy Equity Act of 2021 This bill establishes an Office of Energy Equity within the Department of Energy. The office must (1) promote an agencywide environmental justice strategy and interagency collaboration, (2) reduce or stabilize energy costs within underserved or disadvantaged communities, and (3) increase the availability of energy conservation measures within underserved or disadvantaged communities.