A key objective of work package 3 is to understand the drivers and motivations of citizens as they engage with the energy system, most often in their role as consumers. This deliverable reports on work undertaken for Task 3.2 of the work package and is the result of a detailed desk-based research mapping the types of participation citizens are undertaking as part of the energy transition, whether it be as producers, consumers, or prosumers of energy. The deliverable outlines existing and emerging patterns of consumer engagement around energy, including current demand response initiatives in the EU. An overview of the socio-political status of community energy in fourteen European countries is presented, encompassing broad range of experience across member states and includes an illustrative case study from each country. These case studies represent a diverse range of energy projects and characterise the drivers, limitations, and challenges encountered by those currently engaged in community energy development. In addition, the socio-economic, socio-cultural, and geographic factors involved in CEC formation are examined to develop an in-depth understanding of the factors driving community engagement.
This report should be considered in conjunction with its companion deliverable, D3.9 Energy Governance Analysis and Typology for Communities. Taken together, they provide an overview of the key factors currently impacting CEC formation in Europe and the governance frameworks that are driving it.