Policies for times of disruptions: How households in Europe dealt with the energy crisis in the winter 2022/2023

Abstract

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 had a significant impact on Europe's energy supply, leading to a sharp rise in energy prices that directly affected European households, causing financial strain and disruptions in energy-related practices such as heating and cooking, especially among the economically vulnerable. Households in six European countries – Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Switzerland – were surveyed to examine challenges and adaptation measures, including strategies such as reducing room temperature and energy consumption, and how these varied across political and socio-technical contexts. Using descriptive statistics and factor analysis, this paper shows that perceptions of rising energy prices vary across countries, but that feeling affected by the crisis does not necessarily translate into everyday energy-saving actions. However, a higher perceived impact on daily life correlates with lower confidence in the future, especially among younger participants, low-income groups, and women. The paper highlights the policy opportunities and challenges of crises, which offer opportunities for change and raise awareness around the need for a swifter green energy transition; if mishandled, crises situations and energy transitions more generally could widen inequalities and lead to the rejection of this goal. Three recommendations are put forward: empowering vulnerable groups without exacerbating inequalities, building resilience to future energy crises, and fostering public confidence in the management of disruptions.