Barcelona firefighters detect over 3,600 cases of energy poverty since 2017

Barcelona firefighters have identified 3,629 cases of potential energy poverty since 2017, thanks to a specific protocol allowing them to alert social services and energy advisors during callouts.

Rubèn Estela, head of the territorial operations unit, explained to the Catalan News Agency ACN that firefighters encounter around 1.2 cases every day - or around 500 cases a year. 

Energy poverty has become a widespread issue across Catalonia, with 20% of residents unable to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the colder months, according to the latest Living Conditions Survey by Idescat.

In 2017, Barcelona firefighters began implementing a protocol designed to identify the needs of people that social services might miss.

Estela emphasized that firefighters' access to homes during emergencies presented an opportunity to spot signs of energy poverty. "It helped us to observe indicators and ensure these problems could be addressed," he explained.

The protocol was developed in collaboration with Barcelona's Social Emergency and Urgent Care Centre (CUESB) and Energy Advice Points. It includes a set of guidelines and steps for firefighters to follow when encountering such situations.

Trade unions and the Alliance Against Energy Poverty (APE) are calling on the Catalan government to adopt Barcelona's model of dealing with such cases and activate a protocol agreed upon seven years ago to address the crisis.

The social actors argue that extending this approach across Catalonia could make a significant difference in combating energy poverty.

Energy poverty impact and challenges

The protocol of the Barcelona firefighters to address energy poverty focuses on two main areas: access to basic utilities and home safety.

Indicators include inactive electricity networks, makeshift heating systems, or a lack of running water, often evidenced by stored bottles or jugs.

Poor housing conditions such as leaks, dampness, or hoarding also raise red flags.

Since 2017, the protocol has generated 3,629 reports, connecting vulnerable residents to social services like energy advisory points.

Energy poverty affects all city districts and diverse demographics, including seniors whose reduced incomes complicate their ability to maintain safe living conditions.

Attempts to expand the protocol across Catalonia have faltered due to bureaucratic delays and insufficient political will, despite successful pilot programs in several towns.

Social groups highlight the importance of broader implementation, citing its preventative potential and minimal operational burden for firefighters.

They urge the government to prioritize coordination among departments to ensure effective action against energy poverty, which continues to cause fatalities and exacerbate social issues.