Addressing Housing Affordability and Energy Poverty: A Dual Challenge for the EU

Housing and energy poverty are deeply inter-connected. Rising housing costs and inefficient buildings intensify the financial burden and limit access to essential energy services for vulnerable households. In 2023, 18.5% of EU households did not have adequate insulation or heating systems to keep their dwelling comfortably warm. Rising housing costs increase income inequality in all Member States, disproportionately affecting low-income households who often spend more than 40% of their income on housing. Targeted policies on energy efficiency and affordable housing are crucial to address disparities and foster a just energy transition while advancing EU climate goals.

Authors: OZDEMIR Erhan, KOUKOUFIKIS Giorgos