Heating, transport and participation in life

Energy poverty negatively affects households and is often a consequence of poor energy efficiency or dependence on fossil fuels. Addressing it is therefore crucial to meeting the EU’s 2030 energy objectives of decarbonization, energy efficiency and a just transition. In Nordic countries, the importance of heating and transport for a good life means these sectors account for a large share of energy use in Sweden.

Personal transport remains the largest source of fossil fuel emissions from households. At the same time, the rapid electrification of the transport sector is increasing inequalities in transport affordability. While heating in Sweden is close to decarbonized, inefficient forms of electric heating are still prevalent and overrepresented among low-income households. As a result, these households are disproportionately affected during periods of high energy prices.

The forthcoming implementation of the European Union Emissions Trading System 2 (EU ETS2) in 2028 will impose additional financial burdens on households that rely on fossil fuels for heating and transport, increasing the risk of energy poverty. Existing research generally addresses heating and transport poverty separately, which can overlook groups experiencing the combined burden of both. This double burden can force trade-offs between heating and mobility and limit full participation in society.

To better understand how heating and transport poverty interact and shape lived experiences in Swedish households, this project uses mixed methods and artistic representations to inform researchers, policymakers and the general public. In addition to household experiences, the project examines the underlying power structures that produce and sustain energy-related inequalities. Drawing on networks across participating organizations, the project will translate insights into practical actions for households and inform policymaking at the EU level.