Energy as a basic human right? That is what Right to Energy Coalition (R2E) formed in 2017 believes is a key to overcoming the complex issue of energy poverty. Since then, R2E has been calling for a strategic action to tackle the root causes and consequences of energy poverty. There is need for an integrated and holistic policy approach in regards to energy poverty since the issue brings different challenges together. The R2E considers
warming world, increasing social inequality and unjust energy system
as the key areas contributing to energy poverty. Energy poverty is understood by R2E as a political choice that inevitably needs political response that is, however, many times lacking.
R2E’s main points in reaching fair energy transition:
- A ban of disconnections, to effectively ensure the right to energy
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The supply of a minimum amount of energy for all
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A massive renovation programme across the EU, to provide decent, efficient housing for all
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The targeting of the most vulnerable in these renovation efforts
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Recognition of the role of community energy in alleviating energy poverty
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Support for community energy projects fighting energy poverty
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A European definition of energy poverty, to understand and monitor the issue at EU-level
Connecting trade unions, anti-poverty organizations, social housing providers, environmental and health organizations and energy cooperatives, R2E organizes between June 19 and 20, 2019 Right to Energy Forum in Brussels, Belgium. During the workshops, conferences and two plenaries for collective reflection and strategizing, activists and specialists in energy poverty will meet, share and discuss the experience, stories, practical skills and challenging questions regarding the growing discontent in climate policies. Habitat for Humanity International will be there organizing a workshop on Energy poverty from Eastern European angle on the 19th of June 3:30 PM. Will you?
Find more information about Right to Energy Coalition here.
Find more information about Right to Energy Forum here.
Find the newest findings in R2E’s report “Power to the people” here.
