A0644
Title: Measuring fuzzy energy poverty in Italy
Authors: Giuseppe Scandurra - Parthenope University of Naples (Italy) [presenting]
Abstract: Energy poverty remains a critical yet inadequately captured dimension of socio-economic deprivation, especially in high-income countries, where affordability, rather than access, defines the problem. Traditional measurement methods offer binary classifications that overlook the gradient and complexity of energy-related hardship. These shortcomings are addressed by proposing a novel, fuzzy logic-based approach to assessing energy poverty. Building on the totally fuzzy and relative framework, the aim is to propose is the fuzzy energy poverty index (FEPI) that integrates both objective and subjective indicators, including energy expenditure-to-income ratios, thermal comfort adequacy, housing insulation quality, and self-reported hardship. Fuzzy membership functions are employed to quantify the degree of deprivation for each dimension, which are then aggregated using fuzzy operators to form a composite index. Applied to empirical data on Italian households, the FEPI captures a continuum of energy deprivation, highlighting not just those in acute need but also those at risk, offering more nuanced insights than binary classifications. This approach enables dynamic responsiveness to socio-economic and environmental pressures such as inflation, energy price volatility, and climate-related demands on residential energy use. FEPI model contributes to more targeted, inclusive, and sustainable energy policy interventions, aligning with European goals for energy justice and social equity.
