Integrating Energy Justice with Economic Realities: Survey Results on Renewable Energy Support and Household Expenditure Disparities

Abstract

Energy justice is a critical element of the European Union's objective to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, which presents both environmental and societal challenges. This research employs a comprehensive methodology to investigate public attitudes toward renewable energy and energy inequality. A representative survey was implemented to collect empirical data on household expenditures for electricity, natural gas, and heating. This data was subsequently analyzed to evaluate the extent of energy inequality and its potential impact on energy affordability and accessibility for various income groups. Furthermore, the study examines public attitudes toward renewable energy, including their perceived benefits, barriers, and willingness to implement these technologies. Despite the fact that the results are concentrated on Lithuania, they provide a comparative perspective that aids in the identification of common challenges and opportunities that are pertinent to other EU countries. This method improves comprehension of energy inequality and its implications in a variety of European contexts and climate objectives. The findings indicate a generally equitable distribution of energy costs, but they also emphasize a substantial reluctance to pay premiums for renewable energy, which is indicative of economic constraints. The research emphasizes the necessity of targeted policies to improve the financial accessibility of renewable energy and resolve underlying inequalities, thereby facilitating a fair and inclusive transition to a sustainable and climate-neutral future.