This is defined as a household which has a Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of D,E,F or G and, if they were to spend the required amount to heat their home, they would be left with an income below the official poverty line.
Our definition of a vulnerable household in fuel poverty is one which has young children or with at least one elderly or disabled person or a person classed as long-term sick.
To maintain an adequate standard of warmth, a house should generally be 21°C in the living room and 18°C in the other rooms.
Causes and effects of fuel poverty
The main causes of fuel poverty are a combination of factors:
- fuel costs
- poor energy efficiency in the home
- household income
- poor health
- under occupancy
- poor education and lack of awareness.