João Pedro Gouveia participated in the 47th International Conference of the International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE 2026), hosted by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago under the theme "Bridging Continents, Fueling Progress: Energy Development in a Global Context." The conference brought together leading researchers, policymakers, industry representatives and international organisations to discuss the future of global energy systems through plenary sessions, scientific presentations and policy dialogue. The plenary programme featured internationally recognised experts addressing the major challenges of energy security, decarbonisation, climate policy and the global energy transition.

During the session "Social Dimensions of Energy Transition", João Pedro Gouveia presented the paper "Tackling Energy Poverty in the EU: Evidence, Tools, and Local Action." The presentation showcased recent research on energy poverty across Europe, highlighting innovative analytical tools, territorial indicators and practical experiences developed to support local authorities in designing more effective and socially inclusive energy policies.

The presentation also explored how evidence-based approaches can strengthen local action, improve policy targeting and contribute to a fair and equitable energy transition, drawing on recent European initiatives and collaborative research with municipalities and public authorities. The discussion generated valuable exchanges with researchers working on the social dimensions of energy transitions from across the world, reinforcing international collaboration on one of the most pressing challenges of the clean energy transition.