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Energy is not just a utility; it's a lifeline. 

  

It powers our homes, fuels our industries, and is central to our daily lives. That's why fair and equitable access for all community members is more than a basic need; it represents a collective responsibility. That’s why one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals is “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all” (Goal #7).  

    

This is not just about keeping the lights on; it's about ensuring that everyone can heat their homes, cook their meals, educate their children and lead healthy lives without having to worry about being able to afford essentials.  

  

In order to have meaningful progress in addressing energy inequity, it's critical that we are aware of its presence as a real and pressing issue.  

  

There are estimated to be at least 64,000 households in Calgary that face challenges in affording basic energy utilities such as electricity and gas. This situation often forces residents into making hard decisions they should never have to make, like between heating their homes and buying groceries. At this time when costs of living are so high, energy inequity makes the situation so much worse – with many facing potential homelessness.   

  

Thankfully, we are starting to see more and more focus on energy inequity in a wide range of programs. Skyline Partners is currently supporting the development of The City of Calgary's Energy Equity Strategy that aims to directly tackle energy inequity in Calgary. Through this initiative, we've been able to connect with diverse communities, hearing firsthand about their energy challenges and effective ways to address them.  

 

The media reported yesterday that the new iteration of the Greener Homes Grant will focus on low-to-median income programming – enabling people to participate in the programs without having to front significant dollars and wait months for the rebate. 

 

These measures are promising. It means governments have heard community members who want to undertake energy efficiency retrofits but can’t afford the new technology.  

 

But there is still much work to be done.