Unlocking the potential of energy communities: Best practices from across Europe

The ENERGIZE project analysed over 60 successful Energy Community initiatives to bring you the best practices incorporating a holistic approach that considers governance, financing, technical aspects, and, most importantly, community engagement.

Illustration : ENERGIZE

The transition to a sustainable energy system in Europe depends on active local participation. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) play a key role by generating local renewable energy, improving efficiency, and strengthening community resilience.

In this report produced by the ENERGIZE project, you will find:

🔹 Tailored solutions – Communities like Thermo Bello (Netherlands) and Repowering London adapt projects to local needs, integrating energy production with heating, water management, and job creation.
🔹 The role of local authorities – Municipalities in Austria, Italy, and Spain support energy communities through governance, incentives, or regulatory assistance.
🔹 Financial strategies – Crowdfunding, member investments, and EU/national funding help ensure economic stability, as seen in Greece, Italy, and Spain.
🔹 Community engagement – Cooperative models like Brixton Solar (UK) empower residents through democratic decision-making and education.
🔹 Innovation and circularity – Energy self-sufficiency thrives in places like Eigg (UK) and Samsø (Denmark), where local ownership drives renewable integration.

Access the best practices here

About ENERGIZE

The ENERGIZE project, co-funded by the European Commission under the LIFE Clean Energy Transition
program, aims to accelerate the clean energy transition in European industrial zones. ENERGIZE seeks to reduce CO₂ emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and create sustainable skills and job opportunities by fostering collaborative energy models. See more here: https://www.energizecommunity.eu/