Security of energy services and uses within urban households

This article explores how the security of energy services and uses differs according to the socio-demographic nature of households. The article begins by defining energy services and distinguishing them from primary energy, end-use energy, and useful energy. It then proposes an ‘energy services ladder’ that tracks the primary fuels and technologies, services and end-uses they provide, and broader driving factors associated with energy use at lower-income, middle-income, and upper-income households, with energy security vulnerabilities. The article does not analyze rural energy services, energy services for commercial firms or industries, indirect energy services, or potential gains from future energy transitions. The final part of the article offers implications for energy policy and energy studies.

► An ‘energy services ladder’ can track primary fuels and technologies, services and end-uses provided to households.
► Lower-income, middle-income, and upper-income households use energy services differently.
► They therefore have distinct energy services security needs.