| dc.description.abstract | This paper investigates the determinants of energy poverty in the Netherlands using a
multidimensional approach, combining both subjective and objective indicators. It examines three key
indicators of energy poverty: arrears on utility payments, self-reported inadequate heating, and the
energy burden (measured both continuously and as a high-burden threshold). The central research
question is: “How do socioeconomic and housing-related factors affect energy poverty, and have these
effects changed during the energy crisis of 2022-2023?”
The study uses fixed effects linear regression models and probit models to determine how income,
homeownership status, housing quality, and other factors influence each energy poverty indicator,
using household-level panel data from Dutch households (2008-2024). The empirical results indicate
that higher income and better housing quality consistently reduce the likelihood of energy poverty.
However, there are notable differences across the three indicators: homeowners, e.g., are less likely to
report utility arrears or thermal discomfort but are more likely to face a high energy burden.
Furthermore, the energy crisis increased the likelihood of inadequate heating among all income
groups, but disproportionately affected middle-income households, while no significant effects are
found for utility arrears. This suggests that affordability was protected at the cost of thermal comfort.
Moreover, this suggests that government support for low-income households protected them from
severe financial difficulties during the energy crisis.
These findings underscore the need for a multidimensional approach in measuring energy poverty,
where both objective and subjective indicators should be included. In addition, policymakers should
give greater attention to specific household vulnerabilities, such as bad housing quality, tenant status,
and middle-income households during a crisis. | |
