Comfort and Energy Use in Alto Valle de Río Negro, Argentina

Abstract

This study delves into thermal comfort and energy poverty in homes in Alto Valle de Río Negro (AVRN), a region where the climate would allow for comfort conditions almost all year round through efficient constructions. The research, based on a survey conducted by UNRN, reveals that most homes lack adequate thermal insulation, resulting in high energy consumption, primarily from fossil fuels. The results show that only 6% of homes have thermal insulation in walls and roofs; 25% of respondents experience energy poverty, spending more than 10% of their income on energy services. Despite these deficiencies, most residents perceive their homes as “normal” in terms of temperature, suggesting low expectations of comfort due to existing conditions. The study reveals a vicious cycle where energy inefficiency and poverty reinforce each other. State intervention is proposed to finance energy efficiency improvements and regulate real estate development, utilizing existing knowledge on effective solutions.