Energy poverty and well-being at the local level: Insights from a community-wide survey in Atlantic Canada

Abstract

In Canada, depending on the indicator, between 6 % and 19 % of households are facing energy poverty, i.e. they are struggling to meet their energy needs. Some peripheral regions, such as the Atlantic Provinces and rural areas of the country, see a larger share of their population facing energy poverty. This study provides an in-depth and multi-faceted understanding of the causes, distribution, and consequences of energy poverty in Bridgewater, a small town in Nova Scotia. Primary data for this study were collected through a community-wide survey answered by 516 adult residents of Bridgewater (12 % response rate). A range of indicators were used to quantify energy poverty. Among respondents, 38 % faced a high energy burden, 21 % reported being unable to keep their dwelling adequately warm, while close to 30 % reported having to juggle bills or cut on food to pay energy bills, and being unable to afford their transportation needs. Women, individuals with lower education, and those living in poorer quality housing and in dwellings heating with oil were significantly more likely to face energy poverty. The likelihood of reporting poorer general and mental health, higher stress in daily life, and lower social support was significantly higher among people facing energy poverty. Local action on energy poverty needs to be prioritized for a just energy transition.