Beyond the bills: Uncovering multidimensional energy poverty in Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to shed light on the extent of energy poverty in Turkey with the help of Alkire-Foster multidimensional poverty index. While previous studies mainly used unidimensional approaches or analyzed several indicators in isolation, this study integrates different indicators to provide a more comprehensive understanding. To this end, this paper analyses data from the Survey on Income and Living Conditions conducted by the Turkish Statistical Institute from 2006 to 2020. The results indicate a decline in multidimensional energy poverty during the study period. The use of traditional energy resources, which is measured by the fuel type indicator, contributed the most to the index. The regional analysis reveals that the Mediterranean, Southeastern Anatolia, Eastern Black Sea and Northeast Anatolia regions have the highest levels of multidimensional energy poverty. These results underscore the geographical disparities in energy access and consumption patterns in Turkey and highlight the need for targeted policy measures in these regions.