Philippe is a Belgian housing activist focused on fighting poverty. Diagnosed with chronic health problems, he sought social housing but faced a long wait list and was forced to rent an outdated and uncomfortable home on the private market, leaving him with high energy bills.

This propelled him to engage with SAAMO, an organisation tackling social exclusion, as well as with anti-poverty NGOs. Philippe uses his lived experience in meetings and workshops with decision makers to address the issues that impact low-income households – particularly energy poverty and the lack of decent, affordable housing.

He believes governments need to change their priorities by allocating more funds to renewable energy and landlord support, ensuring their properties are made energy efficient without any negative consequences for their tenants.

Philippe also engages with political groups and recently contributed to the success of a Belgian campaign that sought to turn a short-term reduction of VAT on energy, into a permanent measure to lower the cost of energy. He canvassed from door to door in his hometown Geel to get as many signatures for the petition as possible.

What is needed for change?

Better use of public funds by prioritising household support and investments designed to fix unsafe, leaky homes. More funds should be redirected to deliver renovations, with a priority on low-income households, people facing energy poverty and those living in unfit housing. Member States must receive guidance on how to effectively integrate EU funds to target subsidised renovations for those who need them most.