COVID-19 impacts on Energy Poverty: Lithuanian Case Study

Abstract

The analyses the impact of COVID-19 pandemics on energy poverty. Comparative assessment of Lithuanian trends with EU-27 and other Baltic States was applied to identify the main differences in these trends and to provide policy implications. Three main indicators from EU-SILC database were selected to measure energy poverty: Population unable to keep home adequately warm, Arrears on utility bills and Population living in a dwelling with a leakages. Energy prices as the main indicator driving energy poverty during COVID-19 pandemic was also addressed in order to fully grasp the negative impact of pandemics on energy vulnerability and energy poverty in Lithuania. The paper also provides policy recommendations to mitigate negative impact of COVID-19 on energy poverty in Lithuania.