Energy poverty seriously affects living conditions and health, being associated with excess mortality in winter and summer. In spite of its mild climate, Portugal has been pointed out as one of the most vulnerable countries in the European Union. In general, a combination of factors including low income levels, high energy prices and poor thermal efficiency in buildings has been considered the main driver of energy poverty. However, due to its multidimensionality, attention needs to be paid to specific factors contributing to this issue in different contexts. This paper contributes to a better understanding of energy poverty in Portugal by providing results from a study combining sociology and environmental science. The methods include the use of an energy poverty vulnerability index and mapping, based on a detailed quantitative analysis of all 3092 civil parishes to identify 10 hotspots for local action across the country, combined with interviews conducted with 100 households (ten in each region). The sample of interviewees includes both rural and urban dwellers, several family types, and individuals of different ages, social and economic status, and living in different types of buildings. Results show the extent, but also variability, of vulnerability to energy poverty throughout the country. In a national context where energy poverty is widespread, findings also suggest that households may consider normal and acceptable to feel both cold or at hot at home, either in winter or in summer. This can hinder the social recognition of the energy poverty problem and the need to tackle its negative consequences on the well-being and health of the population.

FCT

Energy poverty,Portugal,Vulnerability