ENERGY POVERTY: ECONOMIC DEFINITION AND MEASUREMENT FEATURES
Abstract
The shortage of energy capacities, high volatility in energy prices and a sharp decline in household incomes amid wartime conditions are intensifying the already pressing issue of rapidly growing energy poverty in Ukraine. This article aims to clarify the concept of energy poverty, conduct a comparative analysis of the state of energy poverty in EU countries and Ukraine, and improve the organization of energy poverty monitoring in Ukraine. Using data from Eurostat, the International Energy Agency and the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, and applying economic and statistical methods, the study demonstrates the increasing negative impact of the 2021-2022 energy crisis on household energy poverty in both the EU and Ukraine. The research highlights that Ukraine faces greater risks due to disrupted infrastructure, uneven access to energy services, and rising migration. The article emphasizes current problems in developing a reliable and representative database for analyzing energy poverty in Ukraine. The absence of clear criteria and consistent assessment methodologies hinders the implementation of state support for energy-vulnerable households. It is advisable to apply clearer, scientifically grounded criteria and comprehensive approaches to defining target population groups during the process of energy monitoring, taking into account regional specifics, income levels, housing conditions, and access to energy resources. Special attention must be given to improving data collection mechanisms to ensure an impartial understanding of the real situation of households affected by energy poverty. Internal and external migration further complicate the consistency and reliability of household surveys. The worsening energy crisis in Ukraine requires an urgent reassessment of national policies for protecting vulnerable social groups. This includes the development of national energy poverty indicators, aligned with the goals of the energy sector and the strategic priorities for Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery. Furthermore, there is a need to specify measurable thresholds for basic energy needs to facilitate accurate evaluation and effective policymaking. The article proposes legal and institutional improvements in line with EU practices to enhance the monitoring and management of energy poverty in Ukraine.
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