A recent study conducted in Georgia reveals that race plays a significant role in determining the level of difficulty individuals face when paying their utility bills.
According to a study conducted by researchers from Georgia Tech, Black households experience higher energy burdens compared to households of other races.
Factors contributing to the disparity were highlighted in the study.
Historical trends such as mortgage redlining, a real estate practice where housing officials would deny loans in certain areas based on racial demographics, were identified.
According to the report, energy costs tend to be higher in areas where predominantly black neighborhoods are situated near highways or power plants.
Utility assistance programs are experiencing a surge in demand due to the prevailing need.
David Lee Mattison, who works at Emmaus House, stated that their services have experienced a significant increase of about 75 percent in the past year. However, when specifically considering utility services, the increase is around 50 percent.
A recent report highlights the concerning trend of an increasing number of Black Georgians who are allocating over six percent of their monthly budget towards utility bills.
Black households with children, elderly individuals, or led by a woman face a higher risk of falling behind, according to the analysis.
Metro Atlanta has several agencies that provide utility assistance to those in need. Some of these agencies include Emmaus House, United Way of Greater Atlanta, Partnership for Community Action, Inc., Department of Family & Children Services, and GracesList Atlanta.
The study emphasized the urgent need for changes to state and federal housing policies.
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