Energy communities

The European Energy Communities Facility is an EU-funded program that aims to empower and support the development of energy communities across Europe. The initiative supports emerging energy communities across Europe in developing solid business plans. The European Energy Communities Facility provides funding and capacity building opportunities to ensure that the energy sharing projects are financially sustainable and built for long-term success.

Managed by an international consortium, the European Energy Communities Facility is supported by a network of 29 national experts. These experts actively promote the initiative and guide energy communities through the various stages of the project in their respective countries.

Turning ideas into business plans – empowered by the European Energy Communities Facility.

The European Energy Communities Facility focuses on supporting energy communities in the development of a sound business plan. Initiators and founders of energy communities can apply for a lump-sum grant of €45,000 and receive support and trainings for capacity buildings. To apply, a legal entity (e.g. an association or a cooperative) must have been established.

Using the funding, emerging energy communities should develop a robust financial concept and a strong implementation plan that will ensure their long-term success. Capacity building and hands-on support will help the energy communities develop their business plan.

The first application period for funding by the European Energy Communities Facility is open from 2 June 2025 to 30 September 2025. A second application period is planned for mid-2026. The Austrian Energy Agency supports interested applicants in Austria with their submission and answers their questions around the European Energy Communities Facility.
 

The European Energy Communities Facility

 

Funded by the European Union under the Life programme. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

 

Client / Funding body	LIFE programme co-funded by the European Union LIFE programme co-funded by the European Union
Project management	Angela Holzmann
Project team	Altan Sahin Kerstin Schilcher Louise Meister Rudolf Köstler
Project partners	REScoop.eu FEDARENE Energy Cities GNE Finance Ecorys Acaryon Ricardo
Project duration	September 2024 to February 2028