Next Energy Consumer
NEC
Next Energy Consumer is a policy consultancy focused on the social aspects of the energy and climate transitions at European and international levels.
ID: 252182141865-81
Lobbying Activity
Response to Evaluation of the Consumer Programme
24 Aug 2023
One of the fundamental points is that the European Commission has not placed enough emphasis on access to justice and alternative dispute resolution for the most vulnerable consumers. This was investigated by the ESRC Just Energy project, which looked at this in the energy sector. The ESRC Just Energy Project was a four-year research initiative investigating access to justice, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), vulnerability, and energy poverty. Using energy poverty as a site of vulnerability, the project explored how to develop an inclusive approach to justice to accommodate marginalised groups. The research included interviews with ombuds (ADR providers), regulators, energy companies, third-sector organisations, and vulnerable people in the UK, Italy, France, Bulgaria, and Spain. The findings revealed significant barriers to justice, such as legal and financial obstacles, lack of access to information, and inadequate representation. The projects emphasis on energy poverty as a vulnerability highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach to justice, which acknowledges and addresses the specific challenges facing vulnerable groups, especially regarding energy justice. The findings demonstrate that addressing access to justice tools, such as alternative dispute resolution (ADR), is fundamental to promoting energy justice and, by extension, sustainable development. The research provides recommendations for policymakers, ombuds, regulators, and practitioners and sheds light on the interrelation of energy poverty, vulnerability, and access to justice. Our research offers valuable insights into energy justice issues and provides an empirical foundation to develop a more inclusive approach to justice. For example, energy poverty causes a lack of confidence in people who experience it. They face various challenges, such as financial and employment issues, discrimination, and housing difficulties. Energy bills are only one of their problems, and they find it difficult to trust someone who can listen and help them without a charge. Bureaucracy also creates obstacles, as it is often required to file the case in writing with the ombuds. However, local actors can act as intermediaries between stakeholders and partners to solve problems. They can create trust and help vulnerable people. Therefore, ADR systems design must be more accessible, and organisations must become more proactive towards vulnerable users to improve access to justice in the energy sector.
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