The Czech Republic is seeing an increase in the number of people experiencing so-called energy poverty, which refers to those unable to afford adequate heating for their homes, those in debt over energy bills, or those who spend more than 40% of their net income on energy costs.
In 2020, there were around 770,000 people in this situation, but by last year, the number had risen to 1.3 million. This data is included in the Powerty Watch 2024 report for the Czech Republic, which was presented at a press conference by representatives from the Czech branch of the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN).
EAPN monitors the spread of poverty and social exclusion, evaluates the impact of social policies in various countries, and provides relevant recommendations. The Czech report summarizes analysis and research results conducted in the country since last fall. This year’s report focuses on energy poverty, which affects households struggling to secure heating or hot water. According to one study, this situation affects individuals from the poorest fifth of households, who cannot afford adequate heating or spend more than 20% of their net income on energy. In 2020, 440,000 households (or 770,000 individuals) were in this situation, and by last year, the number had grown to 690,000 households (or 1.3 million people). The report attributes this trend to low incomes, high energy prices, and poor energy efficiency.
Jiří Vráspír, a co-author of the report, referenced a recent report on housing exclusion, which is also cited in this document. According to this report, more than half a million households have excessive housing costs, spending more than 40% of their income on housing. These families include 860,000 adults and children. As a result, 160,900 people—62,300 of whom are children—are either in temporary housing that fails to meet basic standards or are homeless.
