About the Observatory

The EU Energy Poverty Observatory (EPOV) is an exciting new initiative by the European Commission to help Member States in their efforts to combat energy poverty. It exists to improve the measuring, monitoring and sharing of knowledge and best practice on energy poverty. This web portal is the main focal point for the EU Energy Poverty Observatory and includes a wide range of useful resources.

What is energy poverty?

Adequate warmth, cooling, lighting and the energy to power appliances are essential services needed to guarantee a decent standard of living and citizens' health. Energy poverty occurs when a household suffers from a lack of adequate energy services in the home.

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Role and Mission

The principal aim of the Observatory is to engender transformational change in knowledge about the extent of energy poverty in Europe, as well as innovative policies and practices to address it.

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The Consortium

The EU Energy Poverty Observatory has been developed by a consortium of 13 organisations, including universities, think tanks, and the business sector, and is led by The University of Manchester.

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