When concentrated disadvantage happens: Exploring the nexus of energy and internet insecurities among vulnerable households.

ABSTRACT

Digital divide and energy insecurity are pervasive issues among underserved communities, issues that become prounoued during the COVID-19 lockdowns. These disparities underscore the critical need to address them promptly to narrow socio-economic gaps. Our study, based on an online survey of 2,588 respondents in the United Kingdom, explores how concentrated socio-economic disadvantage exacerbates insecurities relating to energy and internet access. Our findings reveal that marginalized groups including low-income households, women, renters, ethnic minorities, and individuals with lower educational attainment are disproportionately affected. Our research extends beyond financial implications to explore the broader social and psychological effects such as trust in utility and internet providers. The study also demonstrates how heightened burdens from energy and internet costs adversely affect the quality of indoor environments, underscoring the interconnected nature of these challenges. Based on these insights, we advocate for policy interventions that adopt comprehensive social justice frameworks to tackle these intersecting inequalities effectively.