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Multiple Indicator Vulnerability to Energy Poverty: Assessing Spatial Variability Across Chile

Author

Listed:
  • Aner Martinez-Soto

    (Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile)

  • Emily Nix

    (Department for Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK)

  • Yarela Saldias-Lagos

    (Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile)

  • Daniel Ignacio Sanhueza-Catalán

    (Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4780000, Chile)

Abstract

This study investigates the multifaceted issue of energy poverty, focusing on its spatial and socioeconomic dimensions, with a particular emphasis on the case of Chile. Despite global initiatives like Sustainable Development Goal 7, which advocates for universal access to affordable and reliable energy, millions remain vulnerable to energy poverty. In Chile, this phenomenon is exacerbated by geographic and climatic variability, resulting in significant disparities in energy access, affordability, and efficiency. Using a multidimensional framework adapted from Bouzarovski and Petrova, we assessed energy poverty through factors including household income, fuel costs, energy infrastructure reliability, and regional climate needs. This analysis integrated composite indicators to map vulnerability at the regional level, highlighting high-risk areas primarily in the central and southern regions, where low incomes and dependency on biomass for heating amplified exposure occur. The findings reveal that approximately 4 million Chileans face a high risk of energy poverty, underscoring the need for regionally tailored policies that address both immediate economic constraints and structural energy inequalities. This research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of energy poverty in Chile and offers policy recommendations aimed at reducing socioeconomic disparities and achieving sustainable, equitable energy access.

Suggested Citation

  • Aner Martinez-Soto & Emily Nix & Yarela Saldias-Lagos & Daniel Ignacio Sanhueza-Catalán, 2024. "Multiple Indicator Vulnerability to Energy Poverty: Assessing Spatial Variability Across Chile," World, MDPI, vol. 5(4), pages 1-17, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jworld:v:5:y:2024:i:4:p:71-1420:d:1544447
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    References listed on IDEAS

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