Energy Poverty
What is Energy Poverty?
Energy poverty occurs when low income, high energy costs, and poor building efficiency force households to reduce energy use—negatively affecting health, comfort, and well-being
Why It Matters
It’s multidimensional and affects both winter (heating) and summer (cooling) comfort.
It disproportionately impacts vulnerable groups—older adults, families with children, people with disabilities, and single-parent households.
In 2023, 47.5 million Europeans (10.6% population) couldn’t afford to heat their homes.
Vulnerable groups include low-income families, older adults, people with disabilities, and single mothers.
Poor insulation and inefficient buildings worsen the problem.
Who is most affected?
Energy poverty hits hardest in colder regions, among low-income households, and those with higher energy needs.
Women, especially single mothers and older women, face additional challenges due to income gaps and caregiving responsibilities.
EU Actions to Combat Energy Poverty
Clean Energy for All Europeans Package
Affordable, sustainable energy for all
European Green Deal & Renovation Wave
Doubling building renovations to cut bills and create jobs
Just Transition Mechanism
Support for regions reducing carbon-heavy industries.
Energy Efficiency Directive
“One-stop shops” for advice and energy-saving targets
The human side of Energy Poverty
Beyond technical fixes, energy poverty is tied to education, cultural norms, and well-being. Solutions must be inclusive, accessible, and meaningful for citizens—especially vulnerable groups.
“Energy efficiency is not just technical—
it’s social.”
The IRENE Project: A Just Renovation Wave
IRENE offers a comprehensive and equitable approach to improving energy efficiency in multi-apartment buildings, focusing on those most vulnerable to energy poverty. Its holistic strategy combines technical, financial, and social solutions to
Reduce energy costs for thousands of households.
Empower communities through knowledge and inclusive renovation programs.
Avoid displacement while improving living conditions.
Train public authorities and homeowners to overcome barriers
“IRENE is more than energy savings—it’s a transformation of urban living, creating warmer, healthier, and sustainable communities across Europe”
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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