Environmental Justice at DPU

All people have a right to be protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful environment.

Environmental Justice (EJ) is based on the principle that all people have a right to be protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful environment. EJ is the equal protection and meaningful involvement of all people with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies and the equitable distribution of environmental benefits.

“Environmental Justice (“EJ”) Population” means: (1) a Neighborhood that meets one or more of the following criteria: (a) the annual median household income is not more than 65 percent of the statewide annual median household income; (b) minorities comprise 40 percent or more of the population; (c) 25 percent or more of households lack English language proficiency; or (d) minorities comprise 25 percent or more of the population and the annual median household income of the municipality in which the neighborhood is located does not exceed 150 percent of the statewide annual median household income; or (2) a geographic portion of a neighborhood designated by the Secretary of EEA as an EJ population in accordance with the law.

Here, you will find information on the actions the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is taking to promote EJ as well as links to other helpful resources.

This page can be translated into multiple languages by toggling the “Select Language” button at the top of the page.

Public involvement plan (PIP)

The Department values meaningful community engagement on key proceedings, actions, and services and is using different tools to enhance community outreach and encourage public participation. The Public Involvement Plan (PIP) provides a framework for effective public engagement and meaningful public input and strives to eliminate barriers for limited English proficiency (“LEP”) persons and those with disabilities.

December 19, 2024 - DPU Public Involvement Plan – English | Español |Português | 简体中文 | 繁體中文 | Kreyòl ayisyen | Tiếng Việt | Kriolu di Cabo Verde 

Language access

The Language Access Plan (LAP) outlines the practices the Department will follow to ensure that people with limited English proficiency (LEP) can meaningfully access and participate in programs, services, and activities through translated materials and interpretation.

DPU outreach and tiering policy (D.P.U. 21-50-A)

Information about the DPU’s inquiry to examine procedural enhancements to public notice requirements to increase public awareness of and participation in DPU proceedings.

Grid modernization and environmental justice

Information about the extent to which grid modernization investments authorized by the DPU and made by the electric companies occurred in environmental justice populations.

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