Energy poverty is very context-specific, reflecting a wide range of underlying causes and eventual impacts. For this reason, legal and policy frameworks need to be strategically planned and implemented at both national and local levels.
In countries that lack a clear definition of energy poverty, relevant policies and effective indicators, it can be extremely difficult to identify the people in situations of energy vulnerability who would most benefit from interventions. In the absence of such data, it is also difficult to monitor or measure the impacts of solidarity actions.
Low awareness of energy poverty and how it causes injustices to some groups in society can also undermine the work of ECs. Initially, it can make it difficult to secure support – whether from government, funders or the general public – for taking action on the part of people in situations of energy vulnerability. Later, it may mean that these groups fail to grasp the importance of energy solidarity measures and recognise the value of efforts undertaken by ECs.
ECs should not feel ‘paralysed’ by the lack of effective policy or data on energy poverty or the absence of solid monitoring and assessment systems. Rather, they should take action where and as they can while also advocating for change at the political level.
While acting in something of a vacuum is likely to create challenges in terms of human and financial resources, it is crucial to begin demonstrating the need to address energy injustices and the value of solidarity approaches. As outlined in Chapter 4, ECs can start by identifying and engaging with other entities that provide services to people in situations of vulnerability to, in turn, identify and engage with such households either directly or indirectly. Several resources are available to help ECs plan, implement and evaluate their own efforts.
- National energy poverty indicators (Energy Poverty Advisory Hub)
- EU measures to tackle energy poverty
- European Commission Recommendation and Staff Working Document on Energy Poverty
- CEES: Aligning policy to support a just, clean energy transition
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