Economic Impact of Thermal Comfort: A Climate Zone and Electricity Tariff Subsidy Approach

Millions of households in developing countries face significant challenges in achieving thermal comfort due to poor building design, limited access to efficient technologies, and unequal energy subsidies. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of thermal and electrical energy consumption, along with the associated economic burden required to maintain thermal comfort in households representative of vulnerable communities across diverse climatic zones in Mexico. A dynamic simulation approach was implemented using TRNSYS software, based on a reference household lacking thermal insulation (typical of socially marginalized populations). Thirteen locations with different Köppen climate classifications were analyzed to quantify annual heating and cooling demands, electricity consumption, and costs under real residential tariff schemes. The results reveal substantial variability in thermal loads, driven by climatic conditions and inefficient construction practices. Annual electricity consumption ranged from 3,924 to 7,377 kWh per household, averaging 5,910 kWh/year, with 53% attributed to cooling. Despite government subsidies, energy affordability remains highly unequal: colder regions with heating needs face higher costs (up to 371% more than subsidized warm regions). Electricity prices varied from $0.064 to $0.182 USD/kWh. This study contributes to the international body of knowledge by proposing a replicable methodology that uses energy modeling to characterize energy poverty. The results are particularly relevant for designing equitable energy policies in countries with climatic diversity and social inequality.