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A review and analysis of initiatives addressing energy poverty and vulnerability in Ontario, Canada

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  • Das, Runa R.
  • Martiskainen, Mari
  • Bertrand, Lindsey M.
  • MacArthur, Julie L.

Abstract

This paper examines initiatives that assisted energy poor and energy vulnerable households in Ontario, Canada during 2003–2018. Providing a conceptualization for energy poverty and vulnerability, which lack a formal legislative definition in Canadian policy, the paper discusses the history of Ontario's energy sector and the levels of ‘energy burden’ that brought energy prices to the fore of the public debate. It then reviews 40 initiatives that have assisted energy poor or energy vulnerable households, largely within broader policy areas of energy efficiency and energy savings, housing provision, poverty reduction, healthcare, and climate change mitigation. These initiatives are categorized into three main thematic areas of 1) financial support, 2) energy efficiency and savings, and 3) consumer protection. Further analysis shows that the initiatives largely address short-term needs and focus on the symptoms of energy poverty and vulnerability, rather than on preventative measures. The paper concludes that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the underlying causes of energy poverty, to develop, target and evaluate effective solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Das, Runa R. & Martiskainen, Mari & Bertrand, Lindsey M. & MacArthur, Julie L., 2022. "A review and analysis of initiatives addressing energy poverty and vulnerability in Ontario, Canada," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 165(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:165:y:2022:i:c:s1364032122005111
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2022.112617
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    2. Chen, Xiaolan & Xie, Qiuyue & Cao, Xiang & Li, Qilin, 2024. "Examining the effectiveness of China's energy poverty alleviation policies: A text analysis on inter-provincial panel data," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 186(C).

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