Energy poverty in the EU: state of the art in research and policy directions

Abstract

This postgraduate thesis investigates the problem of energy poverty. A key aspect of this thesis is to present the phenomenon within the member states of European Union (EU). Leading country is the United Kingdom (UK), as it has first formulated the definition of fuel poverty and has implemented policies to combat it. Whether a household is in fuel poverty is determined by the interplay across three factors: (a) the energy efficiency of the property, (b) energy costs and (c) household income. Considering that the main causes of fuel poverty are common throughout the EU, there will be presented programs for energy conservation and energy efficiency as part of the policies of the EU against fuel poverty.