Within the framework of the ENERPOWER project, a study was conducted on energy poverty in the municipalities of Memaliaj and Selenicë, providing detailed local evidence on the challenges households face in accessing adequate and affordable energy services. Rather than assessing energy poverty only through income or energy expenditure, the study applies the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (IVED), based on the Alkire-Foster approach, to capture the different and interconnected forms of deprivation experienced by households

The methodology assesses energy poverty across three dimensions: housing conditions, access and use of energy, and socio-economic conditions, using a total of ten indicators. These include thermal insulation, age and physical condition of the dwelling, access to heating and cooling, energy sources used for heating and cooking, difficulties in paying energy bills, the share of household income spent on energy, social assistance and education level. Each household is assessed against defined deprivation thresholds, with indicators coded and weighted to produce an overall deprivation score.

The findings reveal very high levels of energy poverty, affecting 99% of surveyed households in Memaliaj and 98% in Selenicë. Poor housing conditions, including inadequate thermal insulation, dampness, and ageing buildings, emerge as the main drivers of energy vulnerability

The study is particularly relevant in the context of Albania’s National Action Plan for Addressing Energy Poverty and Protecting Vulnerable Electricity Customers 2026-2030, approved by Order No. 147 of 30 June 2026. The Action Plan establishes a national framework for identifying, monitoring and reporting energy poverty and foresees the development of a national baseline assessment and a regular monitoring system.

For further insights into the methodology, results, and policy recommendations, read the full report: Energy poverty report

EnerPower is supported by #GreenAL, a project funded by the Swedish International Development
Cooperation Agency with funds from the Swedish Government and implemented by CoPlan in
cooperation with VIS Albania and COSV – Cooperazione per lo Sviluppo.