Power & Energy Masters 2024: The ISLET Project and Energy Communities are Key to a Sustainable Future for Islands

At the Power & Energy Masters 2024 conference held in Vodice, Ivan Zoković Cola, a representative of the Island Movement, participated as a speaker at the International Forum on Renewable Energy, held on November 8.

There, he highlighted the specific energy challenges on islands and the role of energy communities in addressing them. Special emphasis was placed on the ISLET project, which has the potential to transform the approach of Mediterranean islands toward sustainable energy.

ISLET Project: Innovative Support for Local Energy Transition

The ISLET project (Innovative Supporting schemes for community-Led Energy Transition) is funded through the European Union’s LIFE programme and runs from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2026. The project aims to accelerate the decarbonisation process on small Mediterranean islands by establishing and developing energy communities. It includes three pilot islands: Astypalea in Greece, Procida in Italy, and Cres in Croatia, which will serve as models for application on other small islands.

Through ISLET, local authorities and citizens collaborate to create a supportive environment for energy communities, promoting new forms of collective ownership in energy projects. The project also provides support in strengthening the technical and managerial skills of local communities, enabling them to actively participate in the energy transition.

The Role of Energy Communities in Island Development

Energy communities, like those being developed through the ISLET project, enable islanders to take control of their energy needs, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Examples of such initiatives include the Novi Otok Energy Cooperative on Korčula and the Apsyrtides Energy Cooperative on Cres and Lošinj, which are actively working on solar power plants and other renewable energy projects.

Funding and Opportunities for Island Projects

Funding is crucial for the realisation of energy projects on islands. The ISLET project provides support in identifying and accessing financial resources, including EU funds tailored to the specific needs of island communities. Through education and technical assistance, the project empowers local actors to effectively utilise available resources for the development of energy communities.

Recommendations for Stronger Support for Island Communities

During the conference, Zoković presented the recommendations of the Energy Community Forum to the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development (MINGO). The goal of these recommendations is to provide better support to energy communities. Increased support from relevant authorities can significantly facilitate project implementation and further empower energy communities, encouraging more initiatives focused on the sustainable energy development of islands.

In this presentation, Ivan Zoković highlighted the importance of energy communities and the ISLET project in the energy transition of islands, providing guidelines for a sustainable future for Mediterranean island communities.

Learn more about the event here.