Gonzalez Levin, Paulina
(2025)
Consequences of energy demand reduction interventions to the Chilean housing stock on energy poverty.
PhD thesis, University of Nottingham.
Abstract
The consequences of energy demand reduction interventions on energy poverty within the Chilean housing stock were investigated. Energy poverty, defined as the inability to afford adequate warmth due to inefficient housing, was examined in the context of Chile’s diverse climates and economic challenges. The study used a mixed methods approach, integrating quantitative data from the Family
Budget Survey and qualitative insights from the Uses of Energy in the Chilean Housing Survey. The key factors contributing to energy poverty, including low income, educational attainment, property tenure, energy prices, household size, and housing energy inefficiency, were analysed.
Households in Thermal Zones 5 and 7, characterized by severe climates and high energy demands, were identified as particularly vulnerable to energy poverty. Energy modeling using EnergyPlus demonstrated that interventions such as roof, wall, and floor insulation, along with double glazing,
could significantly reduce heating energy demand. The analysis revealed that roof insulation had the most substantial impact, followed by wall insulation, while floor insulation and double glazing contributed marginally. The concurrent application of all interventions led to substantial reductions in heating demand, highlighting the importance of targeted energy efficiency measures.
The findings underscore the need to implement customized energy efficiency measures to alleviate energy poverty and improve the quality of life of affected households. Policymakers are advised to prioritize interventions that offer the most significant impact on reducing energy demand, particularly roof and wall insulation. Future research should focus on improving the accuracy of data
on parameters such as infiltration rates, building orientation, and heating usage patterns, as well
as exploring the long-term benefits of energy efficiency measures on health and well-being.
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