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Understanding Energy Poverty in China: Measurement, Impacts, and Policy Interventions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Energy poverty, defined as the inability to access reliable, safe, and affordable energy services necessary to meet basic needs, represents a critical global challenge alongside traditional poverty concerns. Unlike conventional poverty, energy poverty emphasizes the importance of energy availability and affordability, with inadequate access adversely affecting health, education, and social well-being. Recognized as a primary challenge within the global energy landscape, energy poverty has garnered considerable attention from both international communities and academic researchers. This paper provides a comprehensive overview, starting with the definition and measurement of energy poverty, discussing its current status, exploring its causes and impacts, and proposing actionable policy interventions. Finally, it outlines future prospects for addressing and mitigating energy poverty.

Source: Regional science and environmental economics

DOI: 10.3390/rsee2010007

Authors: Yingfeng Fang, Jiayi Hong

Institution: Wuhan University

Language: English

Topic: Energy and Environment Impacts

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207