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27.05.2022

Effectiveness of an Energy-Counseling Intervention in Reducing Energy Poverty: Evidence from a Quasi-Experimental Study in a Southern European City

verfasst von: Juli Carrere, Francesc Belvis, Andrés Peralta, Marc Marí-Dell’Olmo, María José López, Joan Benach, Ana M. Novoa

Erschienen in: Journal of Urban Health | Ausgabe 3/2022

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Abstract

Energy poverty is a serious social problem with well-known adverse health consequences. This problem has been addressed mainly through improvements in the energy efficiency of housing. Still, little is known about the effects of information-based measures on energy poverty and their impacts on health. A quasi-experimental study was implemented to assess the effectiveness of an energy-counseling home visit intervention targeting the vulnerable population in a southern European city, Barcelona, in alleviating energy poverty and improving health. The intervention had beneficial impacts on keeping homes at an adequate indoor temperature and reducing primary care visits. No effects were found on self-perceived health or self-reported anxiety and depression. After the intervention, participants reported a decrease in arrears on utility bills, but less pronounced than in the comparison group. In conclusion, the study showed that information-based measures lead to psychosocial gains and reduced healthcare use. Nevertheless, the impact of these measures could be enhanced by combining them with policies and programmes that address the structural determinants of energy poverty.

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Titel: Effectiveness of an Energy-Counseling Intervention in Reducing Energy Poverty: Evidence from a Quasi-Experimental Study in a Southern European City
verfasst von: Juli Carrere
Francesc Belvis
Andrés Peralta
Marc Marí-Dell’Olmo
María José López
Joan Benach
Ana M. Novoa
Publikationsdatum: 27.05.2022
Verlag: Springer US
Erschienen in: Journal of Urban Health / Ausgabe 3/2022
Print ISSN: 1099-3460
Elektronische ISSN: 1468-2869
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11524-022-00642-6

Springer Medizin

Abstract

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