Work

Rethinking Energy–Transport Poverty: An Indicator for Vulnerable Rural EU Regions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper introduces the Composite Energy and Transport Poverty Indicator (CETPI), a tool designed to address rural vulnerabilities in the EU, with a focus on Croatia, Italy, and the Netherlands. By assuming a social practice theory perspective, this article explores the intersection of energy and transport poverty, emphasizing the need for a far more holistic approach to capture the complexity of these phenomena. Using data on household energy consumption, transport expenditure, and socioeconomic variables, the study developed a replicable indicator, pointing at areas where disparities in energy and transport access might be elusive and therefore unaddressed. As such, the findings reveal that rural areas experience unique challenges, including generally higher costs and limited access to affordable services, contributing to deeper levels of social exclusion. The CETPI provides policymakers with a framework to better understand these intertwined issues to inform targeted interventions that can alleviate both energy and transport poverty. The paper concludes by advocating for policy solutions that can improve equitable access to essential services for vulnerable rural populations.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17062577

Authors: Samuele Livraghi, Marco Peretto, Dimitris Papantonis, Mara Florina Oprea

Institutions: Institute for European Energy and Climate Policy, Utrecht University, University of Piraeus

Language: English

Topic: Energy and Environment Impacts

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities, No poverty, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896