14% Of Homes In 2024 Could Not Afford To Heat Their Homes

A new ESRI report has found 14 percent of households couldn't afford to heat their homes or pay their utility bills in 2024. The institute argues the levels of energy poverty we've seen over the last few years is driven by low disposable income, high energy costs and poor quality housing. It suggests targeted supports are needed, and would be more cost effective than the universal energy credits handed out in recent years. On Friday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Marie Moroney, Family Support Worker at Killaloe/Ballina Community & Family Resource Centre, and Jorien Szkudlarski, SVP’s Member Support Officer for the MidWest region. Photo (c) Luda311 Getty Images via Cnava