Conceptualizing Energy Poverty Using Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach

This article aims at conceptualizing the idea of energy poverty using the capability theory of Amartya Sen. This conceptual experiment is not a novel attempt, and few scholars have already invested in it. In this article, the author have critiqued the definition of building exercise by energy law scholars. They have attempted to define energy poverty purely on the basis of the capability approach. The exercise of constructing a uniform definition of energy poverty on the basis of capability is an oxymoron as the nature of capability is subjective and incommensurable. Therefore the principal argument is that the capability approach is useful to conceptualize energy poverty, but it cannot be used to define it. The approach of capability provides a comprehensive informational base to the policymakers to make decisions as to energy justice. This principle argument is a novel addition to the existing literature on the capability approach and energy poverty. Therefore, the efficient way to use the capability approach is for enhancing the informational focus for making sound decisions and policies.