World population growth, combined with exploding urbanization, contributes to the global demand for electricity. Meanwhile, fuel poverty is rising. More than one billion people around the world have no access to electricity. In Europe, between 50-125 million people are living in fuel poverty. In France as in England, more than 10 million inhabitants lack proper heating.
Universal energy access, as well as flexible, innovative energy efficient-solutions, are challenges that the energy industry must face. Because of its unique position at the heart of the value chain, Rexel has made a commitment to facilitate access to affordable, clean, efficient energy for all. In 2013, the creation of the Rexel Foundation for a better energy future enabled the Group to take a position beyond simple economics and to develop a responsible community-oriented approach by exploring all the possibilities for improving the dissemination of energy progress and for fighting fuel poverty.
Fuel poverty in France
15% of the French report having suffered from the cold for at least 24 hours during the winter of 2017.
543,874 households were subjected to modifications made by an energy provider (reduction in power, suspension of service, contract termination) due to unpaid invoices.
11.6% of the French spend more than 8% of their income on their energy bill.