This op-ed was originally published in the Winston-Salem (North Carolina) Journal and the Greensboro (North Carolina) News & Record.
The Winston-Salem Journal recently reported that Walmart had joined environmental and climate advocates in opposition to Duke Energy’s proposed carbon reduction plan, which is now under review by the N.C. Energy Commission. In the clash of evidence and arguments between Walmart, environmental and climate advocates, and Duke Energy, the fate of low-wealth ratepayers has been almost entirely lost.
As important as it is to adopt a plan that relies on renewable sources of energy, we cannot forget that this process affects people — people who need reliable access to affordable electricity as we shift to a clean energy future. Otherwise, even more of us won’t be able to power our lives.
About one in six North Carolinians couldn’t pay at least one monthly energy bill last year. And due to systemic inequity and discrimination, those of us who struggle are more likely to be low-wealth and of color.
Read the full op-ed in the Winston-Salem Journal.