Energy affordability isn’t just a headline—it’s a daily reality for millions of households. In this episode of Just Power Host Carolyn Parrs welcomes back Ben Nathan, Director of Affordability and Equity at E Source, to unpack the latest challenges utilities and communities are facing as federal funding shifts and energy bills climb. They dive into new research on the customer journey through energy assistance programs, where awareness gaps and access barriers are leaving too many behind. Together, they explore what utilities can do now to pivot toward equity, strengthen community trust, and design future-ready efficiency programs that actually meet people where they are.

Key Insights

• Energy affordability is worsening, especially for low- to moderate-income households as federal funding declines.
• Utilities are grappling with rising rates, disconnections, and the pressure to balance affordability with clean energy goals.
• Many customers aren’t aware of assistance programs, and those who are face stigma, confusion, and barriers to access.
• Strong community engagement and two-way communication are critical to building trust and delivering equitable service.
• Future energy efficiency and assistance programs must be simpler, more inclusive, and easier for customers to navigate.

About Ben Nathan
Website: https://www.esource.com/
E Source Report: The Low-and Moderate-Income Customer Energy Assistance Journey: https://online.fliphtml5.com/exlwh/zwfn/#p=12

About Carolyn Parrs
Carolyn Parrs is the CEO of Mind Over Markets, a branding and messaging firm that helps sustainable businesses and energy organizations communicate with clarity and power. Learn more at:
Website: https://mindovermarkets.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindovermarkets
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynparrs/

About Just Power Podcast
The Just Power Podcast is about making clean, affordable and reliable energy accessible to everyone. Created and hosted by Carolyn Parrs, it features energy experts, policymakers, tribal voices, and community champions who are working hard to make energy equity a reality in our energy transition.

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