Abstract
In this paper, an assessment of the extent of household
energy poverty and the implications of socio-economic status of the
households in Louiville (a rural settlement in Mpumalanga province,
South Africa) is made. In total 165 households were sampled over
the course of two years. A survey was conducted from a sample of
165 households recording objective data of energy expenses and
subjective data about households’ satisfaction with current energy
sources versus what they can afford vis-à-vis their income. Using
the objective approach, the results showed a high prevalence, over
84% (n= 138), resulting from both the escalation of energy prices
and low household income. Among the households under the
poverty threshold, high dependence on traditional fuels including
wood, coal and candles was noted for cooking, heating and
illumination purposes. The subjective indicator analysis showed
that, although the majority of households use traditional fuels for
cooking and heating, over 91% of these households are not satisfied
with their current energy share owing largely to energy affordability.
In conclusion, the establishment of affordable energy tariffs for the
poor can address several energy inequalities in the poor settlement.