Citizen-Led Renovation Initiative: Open Call for New Enablers

The Citizen-Led Renovation (CLR) Initiative is embarking on its next phase: scaling up! With lessons learnt from Phases I and II, which focused on supporting pilot initiatives in Ireland, Portugal, Belgium, and Bulgaria, the initiative is now launching an open call to select five new enabling structures to guide energy communities in sustainable building renovations throughout Europe.

In previous phases, the CLR Initiative empowered energy communities to lead renovation projects, addressing financial, legal, technical, and informational barriers. Supported projects have successfully delivered future-proof residential buildings with improved insulation, modernized systems, and renewable energy installations.

Become an Enabler:

This call seeks organisations to act as enablers, providing comprehensive yet tailored support, including technical guidance, financial advice, capacity-building, and project management. Selected enablers will foster dynamic local ecosystems, facilitating citizen-led renovation collectives and scaling successful initiatives across Europe. Eligible applicants include energy agencies, energy community federations, one-stop shops, integrated home renovation services, local public authorities, and NGOs.

Key Objectives for Selected Enablers:

• Provide tailored support services (technical, financial, and managerial).
• Develop local strategies and business models for efficient renovations.
• Support at least three citizen-led renovation collectives initially and at least one additional collective by December 2026.
• Ensure each collective implements at least one advanced-stage renovation project addressing building envelopes.

Budget and Duration:

The available budget per enabling structure ranges from €500,000 to €541,000, covering staff, events, communication, and travel costs. Services will run from September 2025 until December 2028.

Selection Process Overview:

The selection process involves two steps:

• Step 1: Applications open on 24 March and close on 9 May 2025. A shortlist of up to 10 candidates will be announced in early June 2025.
• Step 2: Shortlisted applicants submit a draft implementation plan and participate in structured interviews in July 2025. Final selection is planned for August 2025, with services starting in September 2025.

Interested applicants can join the dedicated information session on 2 April 2025 (10:00–11:30 CEST).

Together, we’re driving Europe’s energy transition—one citizen-led renovation at a time! 🌍