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 being among 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 as driving energy poverty. However, until recently the problem has been overlooked by national decision-makers, and research conducted so far is also very scarce. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the forms of energy deprivation, as well as the specific socio-cultural factors affecting Portuguese households. This sociological study is based on interviews with energy poor households recently conducted across the country. In order to capture the diversity of individuals lacking adequate energy services at home, 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. This research has been funded by the program PPEC 2017-2018.

FCT

Energi poverty,Portugal,Interviwe,European Union