Measure of structural change in the household energy mix – stuck in a traditional biomass trap?

Improving energy efficiency and renewable energy sources are key in the energy transition. However, not only the share of renewables, but the energy mix also has an important role to play. Traditional biomass must be distinguished from modern renewables and the traditional biomass trap must be avoided. Fuel switching is not a simple task, the theories of energy ladder and energy stacking are used to highlight it. The study aims to measure the degree of change in the household energy mix. The Moore, NAV and the modified LILIEN indices are applied. The results show that the progress of the sustainable energy transition is measurable, but its’ degree is stagnating or even declining in the household sector of the EU. In most CEE countries, the households are stuck in the so-called traditional biomass trap. Energy strategies should make it a priority to break out of this trap by promoting a shift from traditional firewood to more modern and cleaner renewable energy sources.