By Laura Orozco
Rising and unpredictable energy costs are forcing many Colorado households to choose between keeping the lights on and paying for other essentials, according to new participant research conducted by Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC). The findings reflect direct conversations with residents experiencing energy insecurity and point to clear opportunities to reduce harm while building a more equitable energy system.
The research comes amid continued energy price volatility and increasing strain on household budgets. Participants described energy not as a discretionary expense, but as a required cost that regularly competes with food, medicine, childcare, internet access, and housing.
“Energy is a basic need, and one too many Coloradans struggle to afford.” said Jennifer Gremmert, CEO of Energy Outreach Colorado. “Without intentional action, the clean energy transition risks leaving behind the very communities it should benefit first.”
Top‑level research findings include:
- Energy costs are forcing daily tradeoffs with other basic needs
- Small bill reductions make a big impact, particularly when they are predictable
- Community solar and weatherization interventions work, especially for renters and rural households
- Income-qualified households face higher energy burdens due to structural barriers like inefficient housing and limited access to efficiency upgrades
- The energy transition could widen inequality if clean energy remains inaccessible to those least able to absorb risk and upfront costs
- Energy companies and government can help through priority protections, exemptions from pricing spikes, and ensuring advance notice of bill changes
- Trust is built through clarity and continuity, including clear communication and gradual transitions off assistance
Participants consistently emphasized that stable programs, transparent communication, and long‑term solutions matter as much as immediate relief. Sudden bill increases, confusing program rules, and abrupt loss of assistance were frequently cited as sources of stress.
EOC is using these insights to strengthen programs that reduce energy burden today while improving access to longer-term clean energy solutions like efficiency upgrades and community solar. The organization is also calling on utilities, policymakers, and clean energy stakeholders to incorporate affordability and equity into every stage of energy planning.
“These findings are a reminder that affordability and equity are not secondary issues,” Gremmert said. “They are fundamental to building an energy system people can trust.”
Gremmert recently explored these themes further on the Just Power podcast in a conversation with host Carolyn Parrs, discussing energy affordability, participant experiences, and what a just energy transition can look like in practice.
To read the full research report, learn more about how EOC is taking action, and listen to Gremmert’s Just Power podcast episode, visit energyoutreach.org/just-power.
Laura Orozco is Senior Communications Manager with Energy Outreach Colorado.