
In recent years, energy poverty has become an increasingly urgent issue across Europe. In 2023, more than 10% of Europeans were unable to keep their homes adequately warm during winter (Eurostat 2023). The situation is likely even more dire in summer, as heat waves become more frequent and intense, leaving many unable to maintain a safe and comfortable temperature in their homes.
The EU’s response to energy poverty
Recognising the scale of this challenge, the European Union has significantly increased its focus on energy poverty over the past years. This priority is now embedded in several EU policies aimed at ensuring energy affordability, promoting efficiency, and advancing a just transition.
Reflecting this growing emphasis, the Covenant of Mayors has expanded its scope. Initially launched in 2008 to promote emission reductions, the Covenant’s commitment now includes building resilience to climate change and tackling energy poverty. These additions underscore the EU’s dedication to fostering equitable energy transitions that leave no one behind.
Energy poverty reporting: a new requirement for Covenant signatories
In May 2022, the Covenant of Mayors introduced a dedicated energy poverty section within its reporting and monitoring framework (rewatch the webinar and related presentation). From January 2025 onward, all signatories must report on energy poverty as part of their Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP) or monitoring reports.
To support municipalities and regions in meeting these requirements, the Covenant Office provides a range of tools and resources, including:
- Reporting guidelines (available in 24 languages): Step-by-step instructions on how to fulfil the energy poverty reporting requirements.
- A recorded tutorial: Video guidance on navigating the MyCovenant platform and accurately submitting data.
What you need to report
To comply with the energy poverty reporting requirements, Covenant signatories need to provide:
- An Energy Poverty Goal: A clear objective tailored to your local context.
- A Common Indicator: At least one standardized metric to track and report energy poverty.
- A Detailed Key Action: A specific action from your SECAP or monitoring report that addresses energy poverty in-depth.
Why it matters
Reporting on energy poverty is not just a bureaucratic step—it’s a vital tool to measure progress, identify gaps, and ensure that local actions effectively address the needs of vulnerable populations. By embedding energy poverty into their planning and reporting processes, cities and regions can contribute to a fairer, more inclusive energy transition.
Get started today!
Explore the Covenant’s energy poverty resources to find helpful materials, case studies, and best practices.
Details
- Publication date
- 29 January 2025