Regional energy poverty reevaluated: A direct measurement approach applied to France and Japan

In recent years, energy poverty has become an important issue in both developed and developing countries. Although several previous studies have already examined various aspects of energy poverty, there remains an important question with respect to the definitions and indicators that can be relied on to measure energy poverty. A better understanding of the methodological issues regarding the measurement of energy poverty is crucial for the framing and implementation of policies devoted to fighting this phenomenon. This study applies a new type of measure of energy poverty based on a direct measurement approach in which energy poverty is identified directly based on the actual use of domestic energy services by each household. Using this approach, the study reconsiders the regional aspects of energy poverty both methodologically and empirically, highlighting the pivotal role of climatic and spatial differences in the prevalence of regional energy poverty. The results demonstrate that circumstantial factors such as climate must be taken into account to obtain an accurate picture of energy poverty. Furthermore, this study provides an international comparison analysis on energy poverty and energy inequality by region in France and Japan. The results clarify that the energy types used for heating, i.e., gas in France and kerosene in Japan, are essential in the context of energy poverty and inequality. Replacing gas and kerosene with low-carbon energy, while guaranteeing people's energy needs, is the key to realizing an inclusive low-carbon energy transition in both countries. This study highlights the significance and usefulness of cross-border comparisons of regions with similar climatic or other circumstantial factors.