Residential energy consumption in the context of energy poverty: socio-technical insights for public policy in southern Chile’s cities

Abstract

This study examines residential energy consumption patterns in the city of Osorno, Chile. Through an interdisciplinary approach, it explores the use of energy modeling calibrated with socio-technical data gathered in the field. The aim is to contribute to the ongoing discussion on the design and implementation of thermal retrofitting policies while also offering valuable insights for decision-making in medium-sized cities. The results emphasize the importance of complementing theoretical energy consumption data with field-based information. In particular, the study reveals that energy consumption patterns in southern Chile are unique, characterized by widespread use of firewood in urban areas, energy constraints due to economic limitations, and high energy inefficiency in residential buildings.