Energy poverty in the świętokrzyskie voivodeship during the Covid-19 pandemic - In the context of the cumulative causation theory

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this article is to answer the question: does changing the socioeconomic situation alter the households’ condition and energy poverty level in a noticeable manner in the region? (with particular emphasis on the COVID-19 pandemic period).
 Methodology: An inherent aspect of poverty is the limitation of the broadly defined development opportunities, both on economic, political, and social levels. Since economic poverty co-occurs with the phenomenon of energy poverty in households, the author posited the following thesis: there is a relationship between energy poverty and economic situation of households and health of its members in the region. The analysis will be based on: a study of household budgets, social diagnosis and available reports on energy poverty, and supplemented by an interpretation of an original survey conducted in the Świętokrzyskie voivodeship (conducted in mid-2021 for the previous two years).
 Main Findings: Effectively combating energy poverty in the country and in a specific area (including the voivodeship) requires adequate recognition of the situation and identification of the people or households affected. The multifaceted nature of the phenomenon does not make it easy to choose which of the known indicators should be analyzed first. Moreover, its consequences vary as well. More details you will see at the conclusion.
 Applications of the study: The article presents the phenomenon of energy poverty accompanying both social and economic life (the phenomenon of poverty should be considered multidimensionally). The social and health costs of energy poverty were emphasized. The content of the article can be useful for a wide group of recipients interested in the subject under research. Besides, this research is expected to be applied in Jan Kochanowski University during practical meetings with students.
 Novelty/Originality of the study: The COVID-19 pandemic is having a noticeable impact on society and its members, individual markets, and the economy as a whole. Undeniably we have found ourselves in a difficult situation where numerous concepts are beginning to take on a deeper meaning. This includes energy poverty. In addition, there is no comprehensive research on the topic described in the title (for the Świętokrzyskie voivodeship) and the article tries to fill this gap. The article can inspire further research and inquiry in the field of it.