The European Union’s citizen energy movement is gaining momentum, particularly in southern and east-central Europe, where clean energy collectives were previously rare. This growth is fueled by the groundbreaking 2019 EU legislation that mandates the establishment of clean energy communities in every member state by 2024. This legislation is a crucial step towards achieving the EU’s goal of becoming climate neutral by 2050, as outlined in the European Green Deal.
Clean energy collectives go beyond just generating green electricity; they are about democratizing the energy sector, which has historically been characterized by rigid structures and opaque processes. The citizen energy movement originated in Germany and Denmark in the 1980s, with pioneers using cooperative models to organize citizens and invest in renewable energy projects. This grassroots approach has been instrumental in Germany’s successful clean energy transition, known as the „Energiewende.“
Today, energy collectives in Europe focus on various aspects of clean energy, including solar and wind power, energy efficiency, storage, biomass, sustainable transportation, and flexibility. These collectives range in size from small groups to large organizations that provide renewable energy to thousands of homes. Energy cooperatives are non-profit entities that operate democratically, allowing members to share in the benefits and purchase energy at affordable prices.
While the EU legislation has set the stage for the expansion of clean energy collectives across Europe, implementation has been uneven. Some countries, like Germany, have a well-established framework for energy cooperatives, while others, such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, and Poland, are still navigating challenges in setting up and operating collectives. Grid operators and regulatory restrictions pose obstacles to the growth of citizen energy initiatives in these countries, despite the transposition of EU legislation.
Despite the hurdles, there is optimism about the future of citizen energy communities in Europe. A majority of Europeans express interest in joining local energy cooperatives, with support particularly high in countries where the movement is still in its early stages. The EU’s backing of clean energy initiatives provides a boost to citizen energy trailblazers, signaling a shift towards a more sustainable and democratic energy system in the region.
In conclusion, the citizen energy movement in the European Union is gaining traction, driven by a commitment to clean energy and community empowerment. While challenges remain in some countries, the momentum towards a more sustainable and inclusive energy sector is undeniable. With the support of EU legislation and growing public interest, citizen energy collectives are poised to play a significant role in the transition to a greener future for Europe.