Energy Efficiency First for Energy Poverty: Study reveals how targeted renovations can mitigate energy poverty 

A new study, Energy Efficiency First for Energy Poverty, provides the first comprehensive blueprint to address energy poverty through building renovation and the application of the Energy Efficiency First (EE1st) principle.    

Per the study, energy-efficient deep renovations in the Energy Community region could cut household demand by over 60%, improve health by reducing damp and respiratory illness, and generate 12–19 jobs for every €1 million invested—while delivering up to three times the value of direct savings through better wellbeing and productivity.

To seize these benefits, the report calls on governments to define and measure energy poverty, prioritise vulnerable households in renovation programmes, adopt innovative financing models, strengthen monitoring, and apply the Energy Efficiency First principle by shifting subsidies toward efficiency and clean energy. 

"Tackling energy poverty through efficiency both a social necessity and a strategic advantage,” affirms Energy Community Secretariat Director Artur Lorkowski. "By embedding energy poverty targets into renovation plans, financing schemes, and NECPs, Contracting Parties can deliver a triple win: healthier homes and communities, more competitive energy markets, and faster decarbonisation—strengthening readiness for electricity market coupling and deeper EU integration." 

To access the study, click the link in the sidebar. 

The study was developed to support the implementation of the 2024 Ministerial Council Recommendations on Energy Efficiency First, with contributions from the Energy Efficiency and Energy Poverty Coordination Groups. It was prepared by Economic Consulting Associates Limited and the Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar.