Policy Learning Platform - Energy Communities Webinar I.

The role of local authorities in enabling Energy Communities

On 20 November 2025, the Policy Learning Platform is hosting the first episode of the webinar series on Energy Communities, focusing on the role of local authorities in enabling Energy Communities.

Energy communities are at the heart of the EU’s vision for a decentralised, clean, and democratic energy system. They offer pathways to greater energy independence, lower carbon emissions, and stronger social cohesion.

Yet, despite strong policy support at European level, many communities still face challenges in putting these initiatives into practice — from regulatory and financial barriers to limited technical capacity and local awareness.

Building on the discussions held during the Workshop in Budapest (December 2024), this two-part webinar series will take a closer look at two topics where participants expressed a need for further insight.

Episode I: The role of local authorities in enabling energy communities

Local authorities are key drivers in the development of energy communities. Acting as enablers, partners, or even initiators, they can provide political legitimacy, mobilise citizens, facilitate access to funding, and integrate community energy projects into broader urban and regional development strategies.

This session will explore the different ways in which local and regional governments can participate in , or otherwise support, the creation and growth of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs). Participants will discover practical examples and policy approaches that empower local actors to foster community-led energy transitions.

What to expect

Dive into Interreg Europe’s good practices: 

• Experiences from LEEWAY in establishing energy communities 

by Sara Picone, Ferrara Development Agency (SIPRO), Italy (LEEWAY)

• Karlskrona Community Solar Park 

by Pierre Ståhl, Energy Agency Southern Sweden (SIreNERGY)

• Slovenia’s First Democratic Solar Energy Cooperative for Local Sharing 

by Bostjan Remic, NGO Focus & Helena Cvenkel, Energetska zadruga Zeleni Hrastnik, Slovenia (ShareRES)

These presentations will be followed by a panel discussion and a quizz.