Mapping multidimensional energy deprivation: Socio-spatial inequalities and policy implications in Great Britain

Abstract

This work provides a thorough Energy Deprivation Segmentation (EDS) for Great Britain, which aims to address the complex and varied aspects of energy poverty in different small regions. By proposing a reproducible analytical framework, we combine many data sources to provide a comprehensive segmentation that encompasses various dimensions such as energy efficiency, accessibility, demand and supply, housing conditions, and financial vulnerability. The results indicate notable disparities in energy deprivation based on social and spatial factors. We observed higher degrees of deprivation in the peripheral areas of major cities and suburbs in the northern regions of England, southern regions of Wales, and central regions of Scotland. The created EDS identifies six top-level Supergroups and 14 finer Groups and was validated internally and externally to confirm its robustness and applicability. This segmentation offers a more comprehensive insights into the characteristics and distribution of energy-deprived neighbourhoods than traditional measures. This research facilitates policymakers to design targeted strategies and resource allocation to combat specific vulnerabilities within communities and foster sustainable and equitable urban growth. Additionally, a practical tool is provided for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing energy poverty.