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Do energy-efficient homes improve residents’ health? Evidence from insurers' records

Author

Listed:
  • Vincent P. Roberdel

    (Eindhoven University of Technology)

  • Ioulia V. Ossokina

    (Eindhoven University of Technology)

  • Jos van Ommeren

    (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Tinbergen Institute)

  • Theo A. Arentze

    (Eindhoven University of Technology)

Abstract

This paper provides quasi-experimental evidence of the health benefits of a large-scale, nationwide programme of home energy-efficiency retrofits in the Netherlands, exploiting individual medicine use from insurers' records. We demonstrate that these home upgrades improve children's health, as evidenced by a 4% reduction in the use of respiratory medication. We also find suggestive health improvements for other vulnerable groups, such as the poor.

Suggested Citation

  • Vincent P. Roberdel & Ioulia V. Ossokina & Jos van Ommeren & Theo A. Arentze, 2025. "Do energy-efficient homes improve residents’ health? Evidence from insurers' records," Tinbergen Institute Discussion Papers 25-002/VIII, Tinbergen Institute.
    • Handle: RePEc:tin:wpaper:20250002
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    File URL: https://papers.tinbergen.nl/25002.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • I10 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - General
    • Q40 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - General
    • R20 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis - - - General

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