The high-rise re-densification of cities is jeopardizing sunlight access for housing, with the ensuing repercussions on the quality of life and welfare of their inhabitants, as well as the energy and light benefits of solar radiation. This article evaluates the impact of urban re-densification on the lighting energy demand in high-rise dwellings in Ecuador. Thus, the urban and building characteristics of the city of Quito were analyzed, using simulation tools to explore the reduction of solar irradiance on the facade, and the increase in lighting demand while determining boundary conditions vis-a-vis the increase in energy demand, the average wage, and the ten percent rule. The results show that solar obstructions and shadows cast between buildings reduce solar radiation by between 40 and 80%, increasing lighting consumption compared to an unobstructed scenario, by between 2 and 498%. These re-densification scenarios can lead to relevant social issues associated with energy poverty. Concluding that, to avoid energy poverty, the possible building height must be limited considering the street width. This research seeks to help public policy developers in their future decision-making, as it opens up the debate between high-rise re-densification and energy poverty, presenting risks that are currently not considered in urban planning.