Structural improvements to address energy poverty had most substantial thermal comfort and health effects

Abstract Interventions to address energy poverty have expanded following the 2021–2023 energy crisis, but evidence on their effectiveness for improving health and living conditions remains limited. Here we use data from WELLBASED, a European study exploring the impact of interventions for energy poverty and improving health in six European cities. By categorizing interventions into structural, small measures, advice and financial support, we differentiate between the energy poverty and health impacts of each category. Through longitudinal analysis, we find there is little, if any, effect from small home improvements and energy advice, but that structural interventions for energy poverty have some positive thermal comfort and health effects. Direct financial support has clear positive effects on health and energy-saving practices, and when financial support fluctuates, so do participants’ living conditions. Governments should invest in a range of measures, with a recognition that structural measures and consistent financial support are most effective.