Living on the Edge: Energy Poverty and Housing Inequality in Taipei's Rooftop Extensions

This study explores the intersection of energy poverty and housing inequality in Taipei's rooftop extensions, informal dwellings that have proliferated due to urban density and limited affordable housing. Through interviews with 44 tenants and site visits, we examine three main themes: the impact of extreme temperatures, the financial burden of electricity bills, and the implications of landlord-tenant dynamics. Our findings reveal that tenants endure harsh living conditions due to poor insulation, resulting in environments that are excessively hot in summer and cold in winter. Many tenants face high utility costs, often paying inflated rates set by landlords that exceed the standard rates, and lack transparency in billing practices. The "split incentive" issue worsens energy inefficiency, as landlords hesitate to invest in energy-saving upgrades and can even benefit financially from maintaining inefficient conditions. The informal nature of rooftop extensions and Taiwan’s broader rental market leaves tenants without adequate legal protections. We argue that Taiwan’s low official energy costs obscure the real challenges faced by renters in informal settings, highlighting the critical need for policy interventions that address both energy poverty and housing justice. By situating Taipei’s case within broader global contexts, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how informal and precarious housing shapes energy vulnerability in urban environments.