In the Region of East Macedonia and Thrace, the neighboring municipalities of Drama, Kavala, Nestos, and Paggaio are confronting the pressing challenge of energy poverty. With a combined population of 171,874 and a noticeable population decline, the region grapples with economic challenges, registering high levels of poverty and a low GDP per capita. The intricate terrain and Mediterranean climate, characterised by temperature fluctuations, further contribute to the prevalence of energy poverty. Economic hardships, exacerbated by the recent economic recession and crises, have left energy poverty unattended. Despite collaborative initiatives and building efficiency projects, the municipalities lack specific measures targeting energy poverty, prompting the need to incorporate comprehensive strategies into local action plans. Technical assistance is indispensable to analyse and address this issue, fostering sustainable solutions.
The East Macedonia-Thrace Region, acknowledged as one of the poorest in Greece, confronts economic challenges, compounded by a lack of specific energy poverty data. The municipalities are committed to conducting a thorough diagnosis and understanding of the energy poverty phenomenon. To achieve this, a task force will be established, bringing together municipal technical and social services, local stakeholders, and experts from the Energy Poverty Advisory Hub (EPAH). The diagnosis will be rooted in regionally relevant indicators and guided by collaboration with EPAH, ensuring a nuanced understanding of the local context. The outcomes of this diagnosis will then inform mitigation actions, including energy efficiency improvements and direct support for vulnerable citizens.