ISLET goes to EUSEW: How island energy communities are changing the rules of the game

As the world increasingly seeks local and sustainable responses to global energy challenges, island-based projects are gaining prominence. One such initiative is the ISLET project, which will be presented on 19 June 2025 by the Island Movement at the virtual panel discussion “Energy Communities: Local Approach to Innovative Solutions.”

Why ISLET?

The ISLET project focuses on empowering energy communities and creating the conditions for citizens to become active participants in producing their own energy. Representing the project at the event is Cola Ivan Zoković, whose extensive experience in developing energy communities on Croatian islands offers an authentic, grassroots perspective.

An event driving collective change

The panel “Energy Communities: Local Approach to Innovative Solutions” will take place on Thursday, 19 June 2025, from 17:00 to 19:30 CEST, via Zoom. It will bring together a diverse group of experts, practitioners, and stakeholders to explore how local initiatives can:

• Promote renewable energy sources
• Strengthen communities’ resilience to climate change
• Democratise the energy transition

The event is organised by BATEC, a Barcelona-based cooperative promoting a just transition through the social and solidarity economy, and Azimut360, a non-profit engineering cooperative specialising in solar systems and energy solutions for vulnerable communities.

Energy communities — more than just technology

Conversations like this matter because they place people — communities — at the heart of the energy transition. Energy communities are not just about technical systems; they represent a new form of social infrastructure. They are places where energy is produced, but also where trust, solidarity, and local resilience are cultivated.

About EUSEW

Sustainable Energy Days are an integral part of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), held annually with the support of the European Commission. Throughout May and June, numerous events take place across Europe to promote clean energy, energy efficiency, and a just transition. EUSEW 2025 will once again bring together a wide range of stakeholders — from local communities to international experts — to share knowledge and inspiration.