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Energy Affordability

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Kentucky and many other states are facing a growing number of energy consumers with financial challenges, an issue that has become more urgent with the economic hardships created by COVID-19.  While Kentucky has relatively low energy prices, it does have areas with high energy burdens that can threaten a household’s ability to pay for energy, and force tough choices between paying energy bills and buying food, medicine, or other essentials.

One perspective on energy affordability is that of a household's energy burden, a term used to explain the percentage of gross household income spent on energy costs.  In Kentucky, the average energy burden is 3 percent. However in some regions, that number exceeds 10 percent. 

Energy affordability is a complex issue involving many factors and consideration across society.