Household-Level Energy Poverty Assessment in Ireland: A Comparative Analysis of Indicator-Based Approaches

Abstract: Energy poverty measurement at the household level is sensitive to indicator choice and data availability. This study evaluates energy poverty in Dublin using a set of expenditure-based, income-sensitive, and needs-based indicators with a Building Energy Rating (EPC) dataset. Household income uncertainty is addressed through scenario-based income assumptions, enabling estimation of indicator-specific thresholds and escape income levels. Results reveal divergence in household classification across indicators, driven largely by structurally high energy costs linked to dwelling characteristics. The findings highlight the limitations of single-indicator approaches and demonstrate the value of comparative, household-level frameworks for informing targeted energy poverty interventions in data-constrained contexts.