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Rethinking Energy–Transport Poverty: An Indicator for Vulnerable Rural EU Regions

Author

Listed:
  • Samuele Livraghi

    (Institute of European Energy and Climate Policy (IEECP), 1043 GR Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

  • Marco Peretto

    (Institute of European Energy and Climate Policy (IEECP), 1043 GR Amsterdam, The Netherlands
    Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands)

  • Dimitris Papantonis

    (Institute of European Energy and Climate Policy (IEECP), 1043 GR Amsterdam, The Netherlands
    Technoeconomics of Energy Systems Laboratory (TEESlab), University of Piraeus Research Center (UPRC), 18534 Piraeus, Greece)

  • Mara Florina Oprea

    (Institute of European Energy and Climate Policy (IEECP), 1043 GR Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

Abstract

This paper introduces the Composite Energy and Transport Poverty Indicator (CETPI), a tool designed to address rural vulnerabilities in the EU, with a focus on Croatia, Italy, and the Netherlands. By assuming a social practice theory perspective, this article explores the intersection of energy and transport poverty, emphasizing the need for a far more holistic approach to capture the complexity of these phenomena. Using data on household energy consumption, transport expenditure, and socioeconomic variables, the study developed a replicable indicator, pointing at areas where disparities in energy and transport access might be elusive and therefore unaddressed. As such, the findings reveal that rural areas experience unique challenges, including generally higher costs and limited access to affordable services, contributing to deeper levels of social exclusion. The CETPI provides policymakers with a framework to better understand these intertwined issues to inform targeted interventions that can alleviate both energy and transport poverty. The paper concludes by advocating for policy solutions that can improve equitable access to essential services for vulnerable rural populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Samuele Livraghi & Marco Peretto & Dimitris Papantonis & Mara Florina Oprea, 2025. "Rethinking Energy–Transport Poverty: An Indicator for Vulnerable Rural EU Regions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(6), pages 1-24, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:6:p:2577-:d:1612699
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    References listed on IDEAS

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