Prevalence of Energy Burden in a South Phoenix Community and Implications for Public Health

Abstract

Background:

Energy insecurity, the inability of households to meet their basic energy needs, can exacerbate adverse health conditions in residents of those households. This is a critical issue for many Maricopa County neighborhoods with high rates of heat-associated mortality.

Methods:

In 2021, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health and community partners launched a survey in a South Phoenix community (zip codes 85040, 85041, and 85042) aimed at examining the relationship between household energy burdens and demographic and physical housing characteristics. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to examine sociodemographic and health correlates of energy burden.

Results:

Out of 145 respondents, 107 provided sufficient data to calculate energy burden (74%). Approximately 60.7% (n = 65) of participants were classified as having a severe energy burden (i.e., >10% of gross annual household income spent on energy expenses) and were more likely to report renting their homes than owning (p = 0.02). Severe energy burden was also associated with reduction of household expenses to pay energy bills (p = 0.04); experiencing stress related to energy issues (p = 0.03); and prior diagnosis of obesity (p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

These findings highlight the need for interventions to make rental housing more energy efficient and for increased access to and awareness of energy assistance programs, particularly for people with specific chronic health conditions who struggle to afford energy costs.