EU Empowers Local Communities in Renewable Energy Transition
The EU has agreed on a new Renewable Energy Directive for 2030, which includes significant support for consumer cellular-led energy initiatives. This directive, known as the 'EU Renewable Energy Directive', aims to empower local communities to participate in renewable energy projects while maintaining their traditional consumer rights.
Key organizations in Germany, such as Bürgerwerke, Agentur für Erneuerbare Energien, and Bundesverband Erneuerbare Energie (BEE), are taking the lead in supporting these consumer cellular energy municipalities. The directive ensures that every final consumer has the right to participate in a renewable energy community without losing their traditional consumer rights.
Member States are required to facilitate access to finance and information for these renewable energy communities. They must also assess barriers to their development and create enabling frameworks for their access to markets. This includes considering the specificities of these communities when designing support schemes for renewables.
The directive acknowledges and provides rights for 'renewable energy communities' or 'energy cooperatives'. These communities must be autonomous, locally controlled, open to local citizens, and primarily aimed at providing community benefits. They also have the right to set up energy sharing arrangements, with provisions for supporting vulnerable or energy-poor citizens.
Josh Roberts, Advocacy Officer of REScoop.eu, coordinates the federation's input into EU clean energy package legislation. He welcomes the directive, stating that it 'will be crucial for ensuring equitable access to renewable support schemes for energy communities'. The revision of the Commission's State aid Guidelines will be key to achieving this.
The new 2030 Renewable Energy Directive marks a significant step towards empowering local communities in the renewable energy transition. With the support of key organizations and the right frameworks, these communities can now participate more effectively in renewable energy projects, contributing to the EU's clean energy goals.
