Documentary Photography Fellowship Focuses on Utility Bill Impacts in the U.S.

PowerLines, a nonprofit established in 2024 by energy analyst Charles Hua, is offering a three-month documentary photography fellowship. The initiative aims to capture the human effects of increasing utility expenses on American households and neighborhoods. Scheduled from May 15 to August 15, 2026, the position provides a $30,000 stipend distributed over the duration. Applicants must have a minimum of three years in professional photography, with a background in documentary or photojournalism, and demonstrate experience addressing socioeconomic topics with nuance. The selected fellow will create an original photographic project that portrays the personal stories behind rising energy costs in an engaging and relatable manner. Candidates are required to submit a portfolio of 20 images, a biography, a project proposal, and a timeline with budget and travel plans. Applications are due by April 15, 2026, via the organization's website. The fellow will maintain shared rights to all images produced and may undertake other non-conflicting assignments during the term. In a 2024 podcast interview, Hua highlighted issues such as a 20% surge in electricity prices since early 2022, grid vulnerabilities, extreme weather events, and rising demand from AI and manufacturing, stressing the urgency of addressing these challenges to prevent systemic failures.