The heat in summer and energy poverty
Summer is a time when temperatures rise and heat waves become more and more frequent. Despite this, energy poverty is not often associated with this season of the year. Despite the lack of data, some indicators alert us to this problem. Deaths related to heat waves are one of the most visible indicators. During days of high temperatures, the number of deaths increases. According to the Climate Research Foundation, more than 11,000 deaths were attributed to the heat during 2023 in Spain. It is important to emphasize that these deaths are not directly caused by heat stroke, but are the result of worsening symptoms and fatal episodes in people with certain pathologies.
The lack of data and energy poverty indicators
One of the main problems in the study of energy poverty is the lack of data. The most important surveys on this topic only ask if homes can maintain an adequate temperature during the cold months. However, the Public Health Agency of Barcelona is an exception, as it differentiates between winter and summer in its questions. According to their data, 13.9% of women resident in Barcelona could not keep the home at an adequate temperature in summer, while in winter it was 10.9%. These indicators are related to phenomena such as heat islands, which are more present in urban areas with high population density and little vegetation.
Energy efficiency of homes
Another important factor to consider is the energy efficiency of the homes. In Catalonia, more than 81% of homes have an E-G energy certification, which indicates that they are not efficient in terms of energy. This is particularly relevant since 60% of the housing stock in Catalonia is from before 1980, before thermal insulation regulations were established. This lack of efficiency contributes to the increase in energy poverty during the summer.
The importance of ventilation and rehabilitation
To address energy poverty in the summer, it is essential to consider the ventilation and rehabilitation of homes. Adequate ventilation can help reduce thermal sensation and improve home comfort. In addition, the rehabilitation of homes to improve thermal insulation is a key measure to reduce energy poverty. However, it is important to ensure that these measures are taken under criteria of social justice, to ensure that everyone has access to an adequate temperature in their home.
Climate shelters as a solution
A possible solution for energy poverty in the summer are climate shelters. These are air-conditioned public spaces, such as libraries or civic centers, where the population can go to be well cooled during days of intense heat. However, many people do not know about these shelters and do not use them. It is important to adequately communicate its existence so that everyone can benefit from it.
The importance of social justice
Faced with energy poverty in the summer, it is essential to approach the issue from a social justice perspective. It must be ensured that everyone has access to an adequate temperature in their home, regardless of their financial resources. This involves not only having the necessary infrastructure, but also ensuring that people can meet energy costs without having to give up other basic needs.
conclusion
Energy poverty in the summer is a serious problem that requires concrete actions. Heat must be taken into account as a relevant factor and measures must be taken to improve ventilation and the energy efficiency of homes. In addition, it is important to properly communicate climate shelters and ensure that everyone has access to a suitable temperature in their homes. All this must be done under criteria of social justice, to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against energy poverty in the summer.