What is fuel poverty?

Poverty fuel occurs when the cost of reasonable house heating exceeds 10 percent of the total household income. It is a term used mainly in English -speaking countries in Europe, although this term has valid use around the world. There are many causes and solving the problem, although many of them are not easy. In many cases, those who experience fuel poverty must decide between heat and other needs. The less revenue has a household, the more likely it is that the cost of heating houses exceeds 10 percent of this income. In addition, they are more likely to have any lower -income houses with poor energy efficiency. This will lead to further heating costs. The more money it costs, the heat unit, the more likely the family falls into the category of fuel poverty. To fight, some country has developed programs that help households with low incomes to pay energy accounts, especially in the winter months. In the United States, this is known JAKO program of heating and energy aid with low intake (Liheap). In the US, however, it is usually a one -off payment, which does not cover a month of heating during the worst winter.

those who find themselves in the poverty situation can take steps that are not good for the rest of the family. They may decide to reduce their heat to an unpleasant temperature and thus sacrifice comfort and possible health to save money. They may also decide not to buy so much food, clothing or other necessary stocks in winter to sufficiently provide the amount of heat they need.

In addition to the government program, there are a number of other ways to fight fuel poverty. This may be possible for those who live such conditions slightly reduce their thermostats without sacrificing much comfort. Furthermore, with a programmable thermostat that can reduce the temperature when there are no ways in the homeSinging, it can save a considerable amount of energy. These thermostats cost a little more than traditional thermostats, but their value is quickly paid for the savings they provide.

Some energy companies can also offer an energy audit of a house that would tell the homeowner where their homes are losing the greatest energy. Many repairs can cost a significant amount of money. However, many of them can also be carried out at very few costs. Any relief that someone living in poverty may have fuel should be accepted.