Browsing by Subject "energy assistance"
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Item Energy and Equity in the Twin Cities Workshop Summary Report(2022) Ries, Heidi; Nelson, Edwin; Chan, GabrielThe Energy and Equity in the Twin Cities Workshop, jointly convened in November 2021 by the University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment (IonE) and Robert J. Jones Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), fostered dialogue, collaboration, and new partnerships to drive local solutions promoting energy justice. This summary report is for people who are interested in learning about local efforts – including projects developed during the workshop – to build an equitable green energy future. It is also for people who are interested in organizing cross-disciplinary workshops rooted in equity and shared learning. The Energy and Equity in the Twin Cities Workshop sought to engage local organizations and communities that historically have been excluded from conventional energy policy convenings, which tend to cater to established experts rather than community leaders such as activists, artists, and storytellers. It also sought to engage those working to address household wellbeing and security. More specifically, the workshop aimed to advance conversation, connection, and solutions to energy injustice by building bridges between the still largely distinct fields of clean energy policymaking and frontline community advocacy.Item Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs for Connexus Energy(2023-05) Komoroski, Sarah E; Hetchler, Cory J; McKenzie, Conor C; Knetsch, Carl HThis report explores Connexus Energy's low-income spending requirement as part of Minnesota's Conservation Improvement Program (CIP). The paper reviews the current landscape of Connexus’ low-income programs and offers recommendations to increase direct spending, energy savings, and program participation. Our research consisted of a mix of general literature review, demographic data analysis, creation of spatial maps, and direct interviews with Connexus’ partners and other relevant organizations. We emphasize the importance of dedicated low-income programs in overcoming the barriers that prevent low-income households from engaging in energy efficiency programs. The report focuses on single-family households, which constitute the majority of homes in Connexus' service territory. We recommend Connexus pursue a comprehensive home energy audit program, build more robust relationships with Community Action Agencies, and raise the visibility of all their low-income programs. By implementing these recommendations, Connexus can meet their low-income spending requirement while improving the quality of life for their most vulnerable members.