OCTOPUS / EONs

The OCTOPUS project is built on the concept of Enabling Organisational Networks (EONs), collaborative frameworks designed to accelerate the implementation of energy and climate action plans (SECAPs) by fostering cooperation among key regional and local stakeholders. Each EON is tailored to its region’s unique challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the energy transition is inclusive, effective, and aligned with local priorities.

OCTOPUS’s seven EONs include a diverse range of partners, each bringing its expertise, networks, and experimental actions to the table:

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France

In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, two interlinked EONs will operate facilitated by AURA-EE and AGEDEN. At the regional level, AURA-EE will establish and coordinate a network comprising approximately 15 stakeholders, including local energy agencies and unions. This regional network will integrate and build upon AGEDEN’s existing local network, which has been active for over 10 years.

Extremadura, Spain

In Extremadura, AGENEX will focus on the development, update or implementation of SECAPs across its municipalities. To do this, AGENEX will build on existing resources such as SICAREX, a one-stop shop (OSS) for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources, previous energy audits and studies on energy efficiency, and other data management tools. SICAREX will be transformed into an Energy Operator that provides hands-on technical assistance rather than just advisory services. Additionally, new OSS initiatives will be launched to facilitate SECAPs implementation and promote energy efficiency projects across the region.

Cyprus, Republic of Cyprus

In Cyprus, most SECAPs remain in the drafting phase and have yet to be implemented. CEA initially planned to establish its EON through the municipality of Agia Napa. This effort involved engaging key stakeholders including national policymakers such as the Department of Environment, technical advisors like the Scientific and Technical Chamber of Cyprus, academia such as the University of Cyprus, and various local authorities. However, since the proposal phase, a significant merger of municipal departments has taken place, combining Agia Napa with four other municipalities, requiring a reassessment of the EON’s structure and approach.

Basque Country, Spain

The Basque Country has already established an Enabling Organisational Network (EON), and OCTOPUS will further strengthen it through Udalsarea 2030—the Basque network of sustainable municipalities. With over 20 years of experience, Udalsarea 2030 positions the Basque Country as one of Europe’s leading regions in sustainability and local climate action. This multilevel governance network fosters sustainability across Basque municipalities by providing technical guidance, capacity building, and coordinated action. It serves as a key platform for advancing local initiatives on climate and energy. As a support structure for the Covenant of Mayors, the Basque Energy Agency (EVE) and Ihobe, the Basque Environment Agency, assist municipalities in developing and implementing Local Climate and Energy Plans.

Mazovia Voivodeship, Poland

Mazovia is focusing on creating its first official EON to support its 314 municipalities. MAE‘s current actions include establishing an OSS to provide technical and financial advice for SECAP implementation, building a network of professional advisors and contractors, and strengthening cooperation with the private sector through the Mazovia Energy Cluster.

Usti, Czech Republic

The Usti Region is composed of 16 counties and 354 municipalities. There, ECUK is building an EON that connects regional authorities, municipalities, universities, and local action groups. The EON is hosting energy-themed brunches, breakfasts, and workshops, updating and creating new SECAPs and Local Energy Concepts (LECs), and setting up an OSS to support SECAP/LEC implementation with professional advisors.

A Collaborative Approach to Energy Transition

Each EON is designed to foster collaboration through a mix of innovative actions, including webinars, workshops, bilateral meetings, and experimental projects. By leveraging the expertise and networks of OCTOPUS partners, these EONs will create a ripple effect, empowering regions to lead the way in achieving Europe’s energy and climate goals.