Section outline

  • This module introduces the core concept of community engagement, highlighting its importance in the energy transition and specifically in the development of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs). By the end of this module, participants will understand key engagement principles and review practical examples of how communities across Europe are co-creating energy futures.


    Community engagement refers to the process of involving people in decisions and actions that impact their lives. It fosters inclusivity, trust, transparency, and collaboration between public institutions, stakeholders, and citizens. In the context of RECs, community engagement goes beyond consultation. It invites citizens, local authorities, businesses, and organizations to co-design, co-own, and co-manage local renewable energy projects. It is foundational for legitimacy, trust, and long-term success.


    Community engagement in RECs is built on the following core principles:

    • Co-Creation: Citizens participate in shaping energy systems that serve their community.
    • Open Innovation: Collaborative knowledge exchange across sectors and disciplines.
    • Empowerment: Enabling citizens to lead, make decisions, and benefit.
    • Localisation: Adapting engagement strategies to local contexts and needs.
    • Engagement as a Journey: From observation and sense-making to co-design and prototyping.

    Creating successful energy communities depends on people working together. Citizens and local groups, businesses and governments all have a role to play. Citizens can join local energy cooperatives, attend public meetings, or share ideas for local projects. Community groups can organize awareness events or help reach vulnerable households. Businesses might invest in solar panels or offer technical support. Local governments can provide policy support, space for installations, or funding tools. These roles may be different, but they are all important. When we collaborate, we can share knowledge, solve problems faster, and create better outcomes for all. This kind of teamwork brings mutual benefits; the community gets clean, affordable energy; people gain new skills, green jobs, and greater energy control; and the environment benefits from lower emissions.

    That’s why it’s important to remember: we all play a part. There are no silos in a strong energy community. Energy transition is not only the job of experts or authorities. It also belongs to the people who live in the community and the ones who will use, support, and benefit from these projects. By including everyone, we make the process more fair, creative, and effective.