Community energy can be a crucial enabler of a just and inclusive energy transition. While it can create local socio-economic value, it also allows communities to achieve greater autonomy through direct control over financial and energy resources on the road to energy democracy.
Using a case study approach, this white paper highlights different ways communities actively participate in energy decision-making around the world and harness renewable energy’s potential to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits for a just transition.
For an analytical approach, the paper outlines elements a community energy initiative must entail to be defined as such and introduces the different dimensions of an initiative. Drawing from these, the paper sets out key takeaways how initiatives can be set out for success.