What are Energy Communities?

Energy communities, also known as energy cooperatives, are local initiatives aimed at producing, distributing, and managing energy in a decentralized manner. In recent years, they have become increasingly popular as a response to the growing demand for renewable energy sources and the pursuit of energy independence.

An energy cooperative is a formally organized group of individuals or entities that collectively invest in energy infrastructure, typically based on renewable energy sources (RES). Members of the cooperative, both individuals and legal entities, hold shares in the cooperative and benefit from the energy produced, which can be used for their own needs or sold on the energy market.

Energy cooperatives are usually organized as non-profit entities, where profits from activities are reinvested in infrastructure development or distributed among members. The management structure is democratic, meaning each member has an equal right to vote on decisions regarding the cooperative’s operations.

Process of Creating an Energy Cooperative

1. Local Initiative: It all starts with an initiative group that identifies the need and potential for creating an energy cooperative in a specific location.
2. Research and Planning: Conducting research on renewable resources available in the region, such as sunlight, wind conditions, biomass availability, etc. A business plan is then created, defining goals, financing, technology, and organizational structure.
3. Registration and Formalities: Registering the cooperative as a legal entity in accordance with local regulations, including obtaining necessary permits for construction and operation of energy installations.
4. Financing: Collecting financial resources from cooperative members, often supplemented by grants, loans, or external funds.
5. Construction and Operation: Implementing the investment, building energy installations, and starting energy production.

Benefits and Challenges

Benefits

1. Energy Independence: Energy cooperatives allow communities to become independent from large, centralized energy suppliers, increasing energy stability and security.
2. Cost Reduction: Joint investments in RES can lower energy costs for cooperative members, as profits are shared or reinvested in further development.
3. Environmental Protection: Producing energy from renewable sources reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, contributing to the fight against climate change.
4. Strengthening the Local Economy: Investments in local energy infrastructure support economic development, create jobs, and increase property values.
5. Increased Social Awareness: Community involvement in energy management raises ecological awareness and education about sustainable development.

Challenges

1. Financing: Finding appropriate funding sources and securing capital for investments can be challenging, especially in the early stages.
2. Legal Regulations: The complexity of legal regulations and administrative procedures can be a barrier to creating energy cooperatives.
3. Management and Coordination: Effective management of the cooperative requires appropriate organizational and technical skills, which can be difficult to achieve without adequate support.
4. Social Acceptance: Gaining support and involvement from the local community can be time-consuming and requires extensive educational and promotional activities.

Examples of Energy Cooperatives from Poland and Europe

Poland

1. Energy Cooperative “Green Energy” – This cooperative in the Mazury region utilizes local biomass and biogas resources to produce energy. It operates for the benefit of local farmers, providing cheap and ecological energy, thereby supporting local agriculture.
2. Energy Cooperative “Sunny Roof” – Operating in the Wielkopolska region, this cooperative focuses on photovoltaic installations on residential and public buildings. Members benefit from lower electricity bills and profits from surplus energy produced.

Europe

1. Ecopower (Belgium) – A well-known Belgian cooperative investing in wind, solar, and hydropower. Members are owners and beneficiaries, enjoying financial and environmental benefits from the investments.
2. Som Energia (Spain) – A dynamically growing cooperative with photovoltaic farms and biogas plants, also running educational campaigns on renewable energy. Members benefit from cheaper energy and contribute to environmental protection.

Advantages of Energy Cooperatives

1. Energy Independence – Energy cooperatives enable local communities to become independent from large energy corporations, increasing the region’s energy security.
2. Financial Savings – Cooperative members can expect lower electricity bills through joint investments and efficient management of energy resources.
3. Environmental Protection – Investments in renewable energy sources help reduce CO2 emissions and other harmful substances, supporting the fight against climate change.
4. Increased Environmental Awareness – Cooperatives often conduct educational and promotional activities, raising ecological awareness among local communities.
5. Local Development – Energy initiatives support local economies, creating jobs and engaging residents in sustainable development activities.

COMMUNITAS Project

In the context of developing energy cooperatives, it is worth mentioning the COMMUNITAS project, in which ASM – Market Research and Analysis Centre is involved. This project aims to support the development of local energy cooperatives in Europe by providing tools and educational resources to help communities create and manage their own energy initiatives. COMMUNITAS promotes cooperation, sharing of knowledge, and best practices, contributing to sustainable energy development in Europe.

Thanks to the involvement of organizations like ASM, the COMMUNITAS project has a real chance to create lasting and effective energy cooperatives that will serve as models for other communities. Through education and technical support, COMMUNITAS helps build a better, more sustainable energy future for us all.