Core Theme 6: Public Participation and Renewable Energy Communities
CT6 focuses on strengthening public acceptance of renewable energy projects through meaningful community engagement and participation. It supports the sharing of experiences and best practices on involving citizens and local communities in renewable energy development, including both direct participation (such as ownership and co-investment) and indirect participation (such as benefit-sharing schemes and local community funds).
The topic will explore measures to ensure effective public participation in the designation of Renewables Acceleration Areas, including the identification and involvement of communities affected or likely to be affected by renewable energy projects. It will also address policies and regulatory frameworks that empower Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) and self-consumers to participate in energy markets, while identifying barriers to their development and discussing solutions to overcome them.
By promoting early and meaningful public engagement, CT6 contributes to faster renewable energy deployment, reduced conflicts and litigation risks, increased social acceptance, and stronger local economic benefits. The topic supports the objectives of the Clean Industrial Deal by fostering a just and resilient energy transition, mobilising citizen investment, strengthening regional development, and enhancing energy system resilience through decentralised renewable generation and energy sharing.
The discussions will cover relevant provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), including Articles 15, 15d, 16d, 21 and 22, as well as related provisions on citizen energy communities and energy sharing under the Electricity Market Directive and Governance Regulation.