Using Spatial Perspective to investigate Energy Poverty in Rome Municipality

Research aims: This study aims to explore the phenomenon of Energy Poverty within the Municipality of Rome, by adopting a spatial perspective at the sub-municipal level. Specifically, it investigates the relationship between household income and electricity consumption across the 155 Zone Urbanistiche (ZUs). By combining data on average taxable income and average monthly electricity consumption per user, the research seeks to identify whether socioeconomic disparities are correlated with differences in energy usage. The ultimate goal is to highlight areas potentially affected by Energy Poverty and to provide evidence-based insights that may inform local policy interventions targeting energy vulnerability in less advantaged districts. Conclusions: The findings suggest a clear positive relationship between average income and energy consumption at the ZU level: wealthier areas tend to consume more electricity, while lowerincome zones report significantly lower usage. This pattern may reflect both differences in energy access and in housing characteristics, pointing to a potential risk of Energy Poverty in the most disadvantaged areas of the city. Although preliminary and exploratory, the analysis demonstrates the value of a spatial approach in identifying socio-territorial inequalities and supports the need for interventions that ensure equitable access to energy and improve living conditions for vulnerable households.