Achieving an inclusive energy transition requires affordable, clean energy solutions and the active participation of consumers. The European Pillar of Social Rights states that energy is an essential service every EU citizen is entitled to, including adequate heating, cooling, lighting, hot water, and energy for cooking and appliances. In 2022, more than 40 million Europeans were unable to keep their homes adequately warm. The newly published report CORDIS Results Pack "Inclusive Energy Transition: Citizen Engagement for Affordable and Sustainable Energy Solutions" highlights 15 EU-funded projects that foster affordable and sustainable energy solutions.
Powering together for energy solidarity
The Community Energy for Energy Solidarity (CEES) project empowers energy communities to combat local energy poverty through practical measures like energy cafes and home visits. CEES exemplifies how communities can collectively implement sustainable energy projects, providing environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Efficient, cost-effective upgrades
The ComAct project addresses energy poverty in Central and Eastern Europe by facilitating energy-efficient renovations in multi-family buildings. This initiative connects homeowner associations with financial institutions, promoting feasible energy efficiency solutions tailored to local needs.
Keeping homes cool during summer
COOLTORISE is another significant project focused on reducing the impact of heatwaves on low-energy efficient households. By implementing measures such as improved insulation and community awareness programs, COOLTORISE helps vulnerable households maintain comfortable living conditions without excessive energy costs.
Several projects focus on alleviating energy poverty through efficiency measures, renewable energy solutions, and capacity building.
- ComAct coordinated homeowners to unlock energy-efficient improvements in multi-family buildings.
- COOLTORISE piloted measures to reduce the impact of heatwaves in low-energy efficient households.
- EmpowerMed supported women in the Mediterranean to tackle energy poverty.
Other projects facilitate collective actions in the field of energy:
- NRG2peers built a web platform to enhance the uptake of peer-to-peer energy communities.
- UP-STAIRS developed one-stop shops for providing information and advice on energy communities.
- DECIDE identified the best ways to communicate and interact with energy communities.
- GRETA built frameworks to help communities achieve their decarbonization goals.
Some projects developed community-based approaches to combat energy poverty:
- CEES created an energy solidarity toolkit for cooperatives.
- Sun4All helped vulnerable households switch to renewable energy.
- POWERPOOR supported energy-poor citizens in implementing efficiency measures and participating in joint initiatives.
The report is not just a collection of EU-funded projects but a call to action, urging stakeholders at all levels to engage in the energy transition. It showcases how EU-funded research is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
For more information and to download the full report in 6 EU languages, visit the CORDIS website.
You can also explore all the LIFE and Horizon 2020 funded projects addressing energy poverty in the dedicated list on our website.
All projects featured in this Results Pack are managed by CINEA, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency, established by the European Commission under the motto ‘Funding a Green Future for Europe’. CINEA contributes to the European Green Deal by implementing parts of EU funding programmes for transport, energy, climate action, environment, and maritime fisheries and aquaculture.
Details
- Publication date
- 17 June 2024