Fuel poverty is a growing problem throughout Europe. As it varies widely from one country to another, each country has its own definition specific to its context and history. Since fuel poverty is not necessarily synonymous with poverty per se or with unpaid energy bills, it is difficult to identify those affected; but it is necessary to do so if action is to be taken. Meanwhile, more and more people are deliberately depriving themselves of heating or lighting, making them even more difficult to spot.
Because electricity is a basic need, EDF drew up a Group position at the end of 2011. Its goal is to prevent its
customers from experiencing difficulties and to help solve the difficulties of those who do.
Our Group commitment to support our most vulnerable customers
"As a responsible energy company, we make a commitment to supporting our most vulnerable residential customers. We work with Governments, Local Authorities, Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other stakeholders to promote the most efficient use of energy in order to reduce consumer costs. With our partners, we also develop country-specific solutions and programmes to support vulnerable households."
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United Kingdom
London Warm Zones programme with EDF Energy
Launched in April 2001, in the London district of Newham, EDF Energy's "London Warm Zone" programme aims to improve the quality of life of residents and the energy efficiency of their homes.
France / United Kingdom
EDF Energy and Energy Poverty
Several million people are suffering from fuel poverty in Europe. Improving the energy efficiency of their home would help them reduce energy bills and increase self-sufficiency. EDF Energy is mobilising to advance this goal.
Discover the video report :"Energy taking action in favour of households in debt"
Slovakia
"Saving electricity together"
In Slovakia, some electricity prices have been rising sharply. In an effort to mitigate this price increase which is unaffordable for some households, the local EDF subsidiary SSE is providing assistance to help its customers achieve energy efficiency.
Poland
EC Krakow supplies heat to vulnerable populations
In Krakow, a city with harsh winters where 13% of the population live under the poverty line, the EDF subsidiary EC Krakow intends to contribute to the development of its host city. The company is supplying heat to NGOs helping the most impoverished communities.
Hungaria
EDF DÉMÁSZ: a partnership with the Order of Malta
In Hungary, EDF DÉMÁSZ began in February 2012 to support an unpaid bills management program initiated by the Hungarian branch of the Order of Malta, providing funding of 100 million forints (about €336,000).
Those eligible are customers meeting a number of social criteria and families whose electricity has been or is set to be cut off due to non-payment of bills. They receive support in managing their energy consumption.
