10.Y.1. Energy poverty and public health: insights from the European WELLBASED project

Abstract Rising rates of energy poverty in Europe, affecting 11% of households, are a serious public health concern. Being unable to afford basic energy needs can impact both mental and physical health and well-being. The WELLBASED project is a European research project (grant no 945097) in which 19 partners across 10 countries develop, implement and evaluate comprehensive urban programs to tackle energy poverty. We aim to support public health practice by understanding determinants and impacts of energy poverty and develop solutions for policy and practice. This workshop’s main aim is to engage the public health community in the relevance of energy poverty for public health. The workshop participants are introduced to the WELLBASED project and methods used. Two pilot sites will share their story about the implementation of the WELLBASED interventions. Next, findings from the evaluation of the programs on health, well-being and energy poverty across all pilot sites are presented. Implications for policy and practice are shared with the audience. After the workshop, participants are informed about the implications of energy poverty for health, understanding its relevance for public health action. Key messages • The WELLBASED project provides a framework to fight energy poverty and promote health and well-being based on studies in six European cities. • Energy poverty is a public health challenge that requires a health-in-all-policies approach with local evidence-based urban programs.