REScoop.be (Belgium): Building a Federation of Cooperatives

In Belgium, REScoop.be serves as the national federation of renewable energy cooperatives. Rather than centralizing control, each cooperative remains autonomous while collaborating through the network to share tools, experience, and investment opportunities. This model of “federated cooperation” allows communities to retain local ownership while benefiting from economies of scale and shared learning.

By creating a platform where energy co-ops can support one another, REScoop.be has helped make Belgium a leader in citizen energy. The lesson is clear: RECs don’t need to grow by scaling up—they can grow by linking across, creating strong networks rooted in local identity and shared values.

https://www.rescoop.be/