Within the framework of the Energy Poverty Advisory Hub Annual Conference 2026, which successfully was held in Athens on 17–18 March 2026, a site visit to the Energy Poverty Alleviation Office of the Municipality of Athens took place. The Energy Poverty Alleviation Office (EPAO), operating under the umbrella of Develop Athens, is considered one of the most comprehensive municipal initiatives in Europe addressing energy poverty at the local level.
The Energy Poverty Alleviation Office (EPAO) of the City of Athens was established in 2024 with the aim of mapping energy-poor households, mitigating the phenomenon of energy poverty, and actively improving citizens’ daily lives. EPAO offers a range of specialized services to support residents in reducing energy consumption and addressing energy vulnerability.
During a dedicated presentation, the management of Develop Athens, together with EPAO staff, introduced the Office’s operational model and its innovative approach, which links energy advisory services with social support for citizens.
In addition, a thematic session entitled “From Theory to Action – Energy Poverty Alleviation Office, Municipality of Athens” presented the Office’s model as a municipal one-stop-shop service for supporting energy-vulnerable households. The session was moderated by INZEB’s Managing Director, Alice Corovessi.
The EPAH Annual Conference, organized by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy in collaboration with the Municipality of Athens and EPAH, and supported by the local EPAH antenna INZEB, brought together policymakers, local authorities, and experts from across Europe to explore forward-thinking solutions for tackling energy poverty and to discuss the role of integrated local action in supporting vulnerable households.
