Energy-Efficient Upgrades in Urban Low-Income Multifamily Housing: Energy Burdens and Lessons Learned for Best Sustainability Practices

Madeline W. Miller (), Anchal Malh, Kaan Cem Ketenci, Savannah M. Sturla Irizarry, Parth Vaishnav, Zachary E. Rowe, Simone M. Charles, Carina J. Gronlund, Shelie A. Miller and Marie S. O’Neill
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Madeline W. Miller: School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Anchal Malh: School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Kaan Cem Ketenci: Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Savannah M. Sturla Irizarry: School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Parth Vaishnav: School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Zachary E. Rowe: Friends of Parkside, Detroit, MI 48213, USA
Simone M. Charles: School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Carina J. Gronlund: School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Shelie A. Miller: School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Marie S. O’Neill: School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 12, 1-23

Abstract: Residents in low-income multifamily housing often struggle to afford energy for essential needs such as heating, cooking, and electronics. Climate change may increase these energy demands, and high energy bills can reflect inefficiencies in a home’s systems or envelope. Improving the energy efficiency in low-income housing benefits both social justice and sustainability. However, there is limited information on the impact of energy upgrades in multifamily settings. This study examined the energy-related experiences of low-income families in public housing in Detroit, Michigan, who received energy-conserving measures (ECMs) such as efficient light bulbs, faucets, thermostats, and refrigerators in 2022. Thirty-nine residents completed surveys and provided energy usage data before and after the upgrades; twelve residents provided their hourly energy usage. Over 90% of residents reporting income information had an energy burden exceeding 6%, with higher energy expenses during colder months. While many residents appreciated the upgrades, quantitative evidence of reduced energy burdens was insufficient. Existing utility programs for multifamily residents typically offer minor upgrades but do not include larger appliance replacements or improvements to home insulation. To maximize energy efficiency for low-income families, thus promoting sustainability, more comprehensive programs and retrofits are necessary.

Keywords: energy efficiency; low-income; energy burden; multifamily; public housing; community-based participatory research (CBPR); sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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