Spatio-temporal assessment of energy consumption and socio-economic drivers in rural areas in Poland

Abstract

The new project of the Polish Energy Policy until 2040 presents a comprehensive vision of modernization of the country's energy system. One of the directions is to develop a diffused energy system based on energy clusters at the local and sub-regional scale. Clusters are expected to increase renewable energy production and consumption mainly in rural areas, as well as improve the quality of life of local communities and ensure sustainable livelihood. Effective delineation and strategic management of energy clusters should be based on evidence-based analyses. Therefore, the aim of the paper is to assess the spatial and temporal diversification of energy use in Poland in connection to socio-economic drivers from 2004 (Polish access to the European Union) to 2017. The 314 poviat units (county) are examined (NUTS 4 level). Multidimensional data exploration and geovisualisations are performed with use of an innovative location intelligence system of combined geographical information systems (GIS) and business intelligence (BI) software. The paper presents the multivariable data analysis and mapping of selected indicators of: (1) consumption of low-voltage electricity per capita in rural households, (2) population by age and (3) place of residence, (4) residential buildings development, and (5) economic growth reflected in personal income taxes. The obtained results support regional policy makers in energy clusters' location and their strategic management. The results of the study can be used to mitigate disproportions between regions affected by unsustainable suburbanisation, depopulation and ageing society, continuous growth of energy consumption as well as economic inequalities. The study was carried out at the beginning of 2019 as an input for public discussion on ongoing works on the project of the Polish Energy Policy until 2040.