What is Energy Insecurity?

A pioneer in the field, Dr. Hernández has defined and operationalized the concept of energy insecurity and has led foundational research in this emerging field. Defined as the inability to adequately meet household energy needs, energy insecurity affects millions of households in the U.S. and around the world. The energy insecurity phenomenon is comprised of three primary dimensions: 1) economic-disproportionate share of household income allocated to utility expenses; 2) physical-deficient and ineffiencient housing structures that impact comfort and costs; 3) coping-energy-related behavioral and adaptive strategies to manage physicial and economic hardship. There are chronic and acute forms of energy insecurity. Climate change, economic volatility and the ongoing energy transition influence this phenomenon. Importantly, because this issues occurs behind closed doors, it remains hidden in plain sight.