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Empowering renewable and citizen energy communities (POWER-E-COM)

Funding:
European Commission, LIFE Programme

Timeframe:
01/10/2023 – 30/09/2026

Budget:
1 575 336,39 Euro

Contractors:
WIP, Germany (Coordinator); ESCAN, Spain; EWO, Germany; ESV, Austria; ENERGAP, Slovenia; BSERC, Bulgaria; Ayto Rivas, Spain; Obcina Selnica, Slovenia; TUS, Ireland; TEA, Ireland; Community Power, Ireland; Municipality of Gabrovo, Bulgaria

The POWER-E-COM project aims to foster the cooperation between regional/local authorities and citizens to establish energy community projects in six different European countries. By supporting the development of models and tools that facilitate the creation of energy communities, the project aims to empower citizens to take a more active role in the energy transition.

The level of implementation of energy communities varies from country to country. In many countries, there is a lack of awareness and understanding of community energy among citizens and officials. This can make it difficult to establish and operate community energy projects. Additionally, the regulatory frameworks for energy communities vary across different countries, which can create challenges for project development.

  • Developing models for the establishment of energy communities: The project will develop models that can be adapted to the specific needs of each participating country. These models will provide guidance on the legal, financial, and organizational aspects of setting up an energy community.
  • Providing training and capacity building: The project will provide training and capacity building for citizens and officials on community energy topics. This will help to raise awareness and build the skills necessary to participate in community energy projects.
  • Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experience: The project will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience between partner countries. This will help to share best practices and develop new approaches to community energy development.
  • Renewable energy communities: Existing energy communities will be supported to expand their operations and share their experiences.
  • Active citizens: Citizens will be provided with information and resources to participate in community energy projects.
  • Municipal decision-makers: Municipal decision-makers will be provided with information on the benefits of community energy and how to support its development in their communities.