Energy Poverty in Europe – a forsaken problem with many facets: A case study of energy-poor households in Luxembourg

Arbeit an der Bibliothek noch nicht eingelangt - Daten nicht geprüft ; Abweichender Titel nach Übersetzung der Verfasserin/des Verfassers ; The socio-economic problem of energy poverty has received wide recognition, especially since 1991 (European Commission n.d.b), through the development of the first unofficial definition by Dr Brenda Broadman (Moore 2012, 19). However, in Luxembourg, the wealthiest EU country, the problem of energy poverty lacks serious awareness and research. The in adequate approach to this complex issue by politicians and researchers alike led to the creation of a massive data gap. The importance of tackling energy povertylies in its multidimensional nature, as this social issue directly ties to financial injustice,social exclusion, and climate change. Consequently, this socio-economic issue seriously hinders social and sustainable development as it triggers social exclusion, increases vulnerability, and reduces well-being.This study aims to paint a picture of the specificities of energy poverty in Luxembourg,what indicators have been applied till now, expose the energy poverty data gap that has developed due to lacking research and political initiative, and intends to uncover what life as an energy-poor household is like, specifically regarding behavioural changes triggered by precariousness. An extensive literature review was performed combined with in-person interviews with individuals affected by energy poverty and vulnerability toget insight into Luxembourg's specificities of energy poverty. An in-depth analysis of the interview responses was undertaken by using energy poverty indicators and statistical concepts.The results suggest that the conditions of the Luxembourgish housing market,specifically the inadequate handling of the housing crisis, is a key component of the energy poverty in Luxembourg. Existing research and the interviewees of this small-scale investigation have reported the following problems that contribute to the worsening of energy poverty and social exclusion in ...