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EU citizens' perception of energy affordability and social and political trust

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  • Nicita, Lea
  • Casamassima, Alessia
  • Santorsola, Marco
  • Morone, Andrea

Abstract

This study investigates the relationships between social and political trust and views on energy affordability, which are crucial for promoting sustainable energy practices. The findings indicate that social and especially political trust are negatively correlated with perceptions of energy affordability. The study also finds that the probability of being highly concerned about energy affordability is declining in the level of trust, especially in countries, as those in Southern European, that prioritize energy affordability. These findings confirm the critical role of trust in effective energy policies, fostering public support for transitions to sustainable energy systems. The study recommends that policymakers enhance transparency, accountability, and public engagement to build trust, thereby improving perceptions of energy affordability and supporting sustainable energy transitions.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicita, Lea & Casamassima, Alessia & Santorsola, Marco & Morone, Andrea, 2025. "EU citizens' perception of energy affordability and social and political trust," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 141(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:141:y:2025:i:c:s0140988324007898
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2024.108080
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    1. Gyula Nagy & Soma Ádám Heiner & Zoltán Kovács, 2025. "Exploring the Presence and Absence of Academic Discourse on Public Participation in the European Green Deal: A Central and Eastern European Perspective," Societies, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-24, February.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Energy affordability; Trust; Social attitudes; European Union;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q40 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - General
    • Q41 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Demand and Supply; Prices

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