Arnhem's energy poverty initiative transforms 7,500 households with coaching and sustainable upgrades
Over 7,500 Arnhem households have received support to reduce energy costs and improve living conditions through the city’s Energy Poverty Approach. Residents gained access to energy coaches, home upgrades, and health-focused solutions, easing financial stress and enhancing well-being.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Households assisted | 7,500+ |
| Residents reached via activities | 8,250 |
| Households with energy coaches | 6,000 |
| Households helped by handymen | 3,300 |
| Sustainable appliance upgrades | 1,300 |
| Youth educated (guest lessons) | 1,700 |
| Primary school children educated | 500 |
| Pilot: Healthcare referrals | Launched |
| Program start year | 2021 |
The municipality of Arnhem leads local efforts to combat energy poverty by providing direct support to households, such as energy coaching and home improvements. It also collaborates with healthcare providers to address the health impacts of poor living conditions linked to high energy costs.
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Over 7,500 Arnhem households helped to save energy
Since 2021, the municipality of Arnhem has been combating energy poverty in the city through the Arnhem Energy Poverty Approach. To date, the municipality has helped over 7,500 unique households, for example with an energy coach or through Neighborhood Handymen. Approximately 8,250 Arnhem residents were also reached through neighborhood activities on energy. In addition, 1,700 young people and 500 primary school children learned about the topic through guest lessons.
Cathelijne Bouwkamp: “The Arnhem Energy Poverty Approach remains essential. With everything that is happening in the world, we see energy prices rising and hear the justified concerns of our residents. Over the past few years, we have worked incredibly hard with energy coaches and Neighborhood Handymen. It is impressive to see how many people are working with us to reach more Arnhem residents who could really use this help.”
Help behind the front door: from advice to a new washing machine
Since the launch of the Arnhem Energy Poverty Approach (AAEA) in 2021, significant progress has been made. For example, 6,000 households received support from an energy coach, and Neighborhood Handymen assisted 3,300 households with practical energy-saving measures. Additionally, 1,300 households replaced their white goods with more sustainable, new versions.
Through neighborhood activities on energy, approximately 8,250 Arnhem residents were reached. Furthermore, 1,700 young people and 500 primary school children learned about energy poverty through guest lessons.
Focus on health
To reach residents who need help the most, the municipality engages communities in neighborhoods. By organizing key figure meetings, volunteers, residents, and organizations in a neighborhood come together to share information.
A new addition to the approach is the link with healthcare. Energy poverty often leads to cold, damp homes with mold problems. This can cause serious health issues, such as asthma or cardiovascular diseases. Arnhem is therefore launching a pilot where healthcare professionals can refer residents to energy assistance. The goal is for residents not only to have lower energy bills but also to live in healthier homes. Cathelijne Bouwkamp: “The stress of a high energy bill is already significant. On top of that, many people also face health complaints due to drafty, damp homes. We must address this.”