Comparing energy poverty indicators in Canada over time

Dr. Das received an RRU Internal Grant for Research to continue energy poverty research by studying different types of quantitative indicators for measurement for a nuanced understanding.

Energy poverty continues to grow in recognition and prevalence with millions of people living in energy poverty, including in industrialized nations. In Canada, scholarly research on energy poverty in sparse, however, it has recently been estimated that approximately 1.22 million people live in energy poverty using the 10% indicator, where a household is said to be energy poor if it spends more than 10% of its household income on energy expenditures. This research will continue development of energy poverty research by studying different types of quantitative indicators for measurement to gain a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon.

Quantitative estimates of energy poverty, and specifically, household energy costs to income ratio (i.e., household energy burden) are important given that this knowledge can directly impact policy for societal benefit. Specifically, by better understanding who the energy poor is, and the extent of their vulnerability, provides the evidence needed for decision-makers to revisit policies meant to lessen household energy burden and protect vulnerable energy consumers.