Empowering Local Energy Action: Highlights from RENAEL Green Horizon 2024

On 15-16 October 2024, energy experts, local authorities, and decision-makers gathered in Rome for the second edition of RENAEL Green Horizon, the annual meeting of Italy’s local energy agencies, hosted by RENAEL (National Network of Local Energy Agencies). This year’s event, themed “I Cambiamenti” (The Changes), focused on the role of local authorities in the energy transition and climate resilience. For the first time, the meeting also welcomed representatives from the European Commission and FEDARENE (European Federation of Agencies and Regions for Energy and the Environment), including President Julije Domac, Director Filip Dumitriu, and Vice-President for Smart and Sustainable Islands, Savvas Vlachos.

Cities at the Heart of Energy Transition

Opening the event, RENAEL’s General Director, Benedetta Brighenti, stated, “Without cities, there can be no energy transition.” This statement set the tone for the discussions, underscoring how local authorities and cities are pivotal in driving the climate agenda forward. Julije Domac, President of FEDARENE, reinforced this idea: “Local energy agencies are the unsung heroes of the energy transition. They are on the frontline, engaging citizens, supporting businesses, and driving real change at the local level.”

Representatives from the European Commission and national institutions echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of local governance in the implementation of the European Green Deal. Cities are increasingly recognised as key players in the fight against climate change, working closely with energy agencies to translate ambitious policies into real-world action.

Energy Agencies as Catalysts for Change

The event highlighted how energy agencies are critical in supporting cities and regions in this transition. Initiatives such as the project “Energie per la Casa Comune” were showcased, demonstrating how local agencies are improving energy efficiency in religious and community buildings across Italy. Energy agencies also help citizens, businesses, and municipalities embrace renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices.

Filip Dumitriu, FEDARENE Director, reflected on the vital role of energy agencies in these efforts:
“Local and regional energy agencies have a crucial role in accelerating the energy transformation and climate resilience of cities and regions. Through their one-stop shops, energy agencies support citizens in renovating their homes, renewable energy communities in taking their new role in the energy system, and businesses in embracing the energy transition as a driver for competitiveness.”

Collaboration Across All Levels

Speakers throughout the two-day event stressed the importance of collaboration between local, regional, and European actors. Eero Ailio, Advisor on Energy Transition and Local Governance at the European Commission, remarked: “The European Green Deal can only succeed with the active collaboration of cities and regions. Local authorities are the real engines of change, and their engagement is essential for successful implementation.”

The meeting also addressed practical challenges and opportunities, such as building skills in local governments, an issue that often limits the capacity to implement energy transition projects effectively. To combat this, platforms like the Covenant of Mayors and the ManagEnergy Initiative were highlighted as key drivers of capacity building.

A Call to Action for Local Authorities

The event concluded with a strong call to action from Piergabriele Andreoli, President of RENAEL:
“Changes are not obstacles but waves we must ride. As local energy agencies, we are at the heart of this transition, building networks of people who can drive global change from the local level.”

Looking Ahead

RENAEL Green Horizon 2024 served as a powerful reminder of the central role that local energy agencies play in the energy transition. With strengthened networks and increased collaboration between local, national, and European levels, the future of energy transition is in capable hands—driven by those who are closest to their communities.

Check our RENAEL’s press release of the event here (in Italian).