Extreme events, energy security and equality through micro- and macro-levels: Concepts, challenges and methods

Date Published
03/2022
Publication Type
Journal Article
Authors
DOI
10.1016/j.erss.2021.102401
Abstract

Low-income households face long-standing challenges of energy insecurity and inequality (EII). During extreme events (e.g., disasters and pandemics) these challenges are especially severe for vulnerable populations reliant on energy for health, education, and well-being. However, many EII studies rarely incorporate the micro- and macro-perspectives of resilience and reliability of energy and internet infrastructure and social-psychological factors. To remedy this gap, we first address the impacts of extreme events on EII among vulnerable populations. Second, we evaluate the driving factors of EII and how they change during disasters. Third, we situate these inequalities within broader energy systems and pinpoint the importance of equitable infrastructure systems by examining infrastructure reliability and resilience and the role of renewable technologies. Then, we consider the factors influencing energy consumption, such as energy practices, socio-psychological factors, and internet access. Finally, we propose interdisciplinary research methods to study these issues during extreme events and provide recommendations.

Journal
Energy Research & Social Science
Volume
85
Year of Publication
2022
Pagination
102401
ISSN Number
22146296
URL
Short Title
Energy Research & Social Science
Keywords
Organizations
Research Areas
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