Engaging citizens in community heating projects

Heating and cooling account for nearly 80% of household energy consumption, contributing to 21% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions. By rethinking these systems at the local level, municipalities can play a key role in advancing the EU’s decarbonisation goals. Transitioning to fossil-free heating and cooling systems, such as renewable district energy, can bring significant changes to communities. However, involving citizens in the process—one neighborhood at a time—can accelerate progress, boost public acceptance, and promote local, democratic ownership. Energy communities have been instrumental in this shift, but more expertise is needed to solidify public-civic partnerships and facilitate the development of these projects.

In this 90-minute webinar, you will learn about:

• How municipalities can support the implementation of the latest EU legislation on building decarbonisation
• Ways to make your city’s heating and cooling plans more participatory
• Tools and best practices for collaboration between municipalities and energy communities

This event is organized by Energy Cities and REScoop.eu, with funding from the EU Climate Foundation and the REDI4HEAT project, and is supported by the EU Covenant of Mayors Initiative.