Small islands play a key role in the energy transition, not only because of their specific vulnerabilities, but also because they can become concrete examples of participatory, locally rooted and resilient energy systems. Experience from the ISLET project shows that RECs are not only an environmental solution: they are a way to strengthen local cooperation and grow energy awareness at the community level.
This is why LIFE ISLET has launched a Call for Interest open to small European islands interested in establishing a Renewable Energy Community using the approach developed within the project. The call goes beyond the technical dimension of renewable energy, focusing on governance, citizen involvement, financial sustainability and the creation of local partnerships, elements that make energy communities long‑lasting and genuinely community‑owned.
Building on lessons learned from Procida, Astypalea and Cres, the three pilot islands of the project, the call invites islands to assess the feasibility of developing an energy community and to explore how the ISLET methodology can be adapted to their local context. The Call for Interest is a first step for islands that want to better understand what it takes to develop a renewable energy community involving citizens, local authorities and key local stakeholders. Through a short form, islands can share their context, current energy situation, motivation for creating an energy community, and the type of support they may need to move forward.
By responding to the Call for Interest, islands gain direct access to the ISLET Helpdesks, One‑Stop Shops designed to make the creation of Renewable Energy Communities simpler, clearer and more achievable. The Helpdesks provide informational, technical and administrative support, helping islands navigate each step with confidence. Beyond guidance, they connect users with concrete tools and official resources, including the Financial Assessment Support Tool for modelling business plans and national portals for registration and incentives.
This Call for Interest is not a binding commitment, just an opportunity for islands to explore the feasibility of developing a Renewable Energy Community with expert support and without obligations. Through a short form, islands can share their context, current energy situation, motivation for creating an energy community and the type of support they may need to move forward.
Islands interested in developing a Renewable Energy Community through the ISLET approach are invited to submit their expression of interest using the button below. This is the first step towards a more resilient, cooperative and community‑driven energy future.
