A chronic multidimensional measure of energy poverty and its impacts on physical and mental health

This paper constructs a Chronic Multidimensional Energy Poverty (CMEP) index by integrating the multidimensional poverty identification approach of Alkire and Foster (2011) with the duration-based framework of Foster (2009). Using data from the China Family Panel Studies from 2012 to 2018, we analyze the distribution of CMEP in China and its impact on adult health. The results show that CMEP is widespread, affecting over 40% of households, with significant disparities between rural and urban areas and across regions. Prolonged exposure to CMEP has a significant negative effect on physical and mental health, with younger adults, individuals with higher incomes, and residents of central provinces being particularly vulnerable. Moreover, the duration of energy poverty has a stronger impact on health than its depth, highlighting the importance of considering its chronic nature. This study provides a framework for measuring CMEP and underscores the need for policy interventions to mitigate its adverse health effects and address long-term energy poverty.