Emergency measures to protect energy consumers during the Covid-19 pandemic: A global review and critical analysis

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic and the consequent lockdown exacerbated energy poverty and insecurity worldwide. Many governments introduced emergency measures to protect energy consumers during confinement. This article reviews and classifies the policies implemented in several jurisdictions around the world, identifying potential inefficiencies, but also best practices. According to our analysis, these much-needed relief measures should be based on a proper targeting and a consistent financing.

The Covid-19 pandemic and the consequent lockdown exacerbated energy poverty and insecurity worldwide. Many governments introduced emergency measures to protect energy consumers during confinement. This article reviews and classifies the policies implemented in several jurisdictions around the world, identifying potential inefficiencies, but also best practices. According to our analysis, these much-needed relief measures should be based on a proper targeting and a consistent financing.