Electrical energy costs and size and structure of farming households. Study from Poland

One social group that is particularly exposed to high costs related to the purchase of electrical energy are households located in rural areas. On the basis of survey questionnaires and statistical methods (multidimensional correspondence analysis), this paper presents an analysis that aims to determine the dependencies between the size and structure of farming households and expenditure for energy purposes. The basis for this paper are the results of survey research conducted on a sample of 480 farming households in Poland. The research shows that there are strong dependencies between expenditure on energy and the size and structure of the household (φ2 = 0.5518). Statistical analysis also showed a relatively strong dependency on the economic size of farms. The research results may serve as a basis for changes to assistance programmes for people exposed to or experiencing energy poverty in rural areas. • An original statistical approach is proposed based on multiple correspondence analysis (MCA). • The farming household expenditure is explained by the specific characteristics of society. • The size and structure of the household is the most influential factor in determining electricity expenditures. • The results of the analysis can be used to design new assistance programmes or to make changes to existing programmes.