Document Type : ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Authors
1 Parliament Research Center, Tehran. Iran
2 Department of Economics, Khatam University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Energy poverty, a key dimension of multidimensional poverty, significantly affects household physical and mental health. Understanding this relationship is vital for shaping effective energy and social policies. This study examines the impact of energy poverty on household health in Iran using survey data and an Ordinal Probit regression model. Core explanatory variables include the ratio of energy expenses to total spending and income-based definitions. Findings reveal that greater energy poverty reflected in higher energy burdens and lower incomes is strongly linked to poorer health outcomes. These associations remain robust after controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors, such as the age of the household head, number of children under 18, and multidimensional poverty status. The study also identifies significant provincial disparities in health, indicating spatial inequalities that require targeted policy responses. Housing conditions, including homeownership and floor space, are associated with health status, highlighting the multifaceted nature of household vulnerability. In conclusion, energy poverty is not just an economic issue but a serious public health risk. Policy solutions must go beyond income support to include regional and multidimensional measures, such as targeted subsidies, improved energy efficiency, and infrastructure development. These findings emphasize integrating energy justice and health equity into national strategies, especially for vulnerable and energy-insecure households.
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