Framing the context of energy poverty in Croatia: A case-study from Zagreb

Like many other European countries, Croatia is also missing a systematic and adequate policy framework to tackle the problem of energy poverty. Currently, there is no distinction between energy and general poverty in Croatian legislation, and direct payments of utility bills are the only measure of help to (energy) poor households. Local and national authorities are lacking validated facts to make informed investments that would make a long-term impact on lowering energy demand, but also improving living conditions and quality of life of energy poor. To collect relevant data, 102 energy poor households in the City of Zagreb were visited and surveyed. Data analysis revealed a significant share of citizens living in low energy-efficient dwellings reducing heating during winter and with draught and mould problems. Wall retrofitting investment was investigated more closely by calculating a simple payback period and proving to be a cost-effective measure with many positive direct and indirect implications. The higher share of rented apartments in the group of the most energy-intensive dwellings presents a potential obstacle in conducting energy-efficiency measures and should anticipate the adoption of stricter renting regulations. •Legislative framework of energy poverty in Croatia.•102 field visits to energy poor households in the City of Zagreb.•Calculation of simple payback period of wall retrofitting.•Comparison of the energy poverty indicators of Croatia and EU average.