Collaboration, Learning, and New Energy: DECA Project Partner Meeting in Cres, Croatia

DECA Project Partner Meeting in Cres, Croatia: Collaboration, Learning, and New Energy

Last week, the Island Development Agency (OTRA) proudly hosted the DECA Project Partner Meeting in the historic Moise Palace on the island of Cres, Croatia.

The two-day gathering brought together partners from across the Danube Region to review project progress, exchange national experiences, and coordinate next steps.

Day 1 – Collaboration and Strategic Planning

The first day opened with a roundtable on training experiences and feedback, focusing on ways to enhance learning modules and adapt them to national contexts. Partners then presented their partnership visions and joint objectives for developing common hub activities, creating space for open dialogue and alignment around shared priorities.

In the afternoon, sessions turned to collective investment options, toolkit performance review, and the next steps for Policy Labs, where partners explored how policy design can better support community-led energy initiatives. Discussions reflected a spirit of collaboration and forward thinking, setting a strong foundation for DECA’s continued progress.

Day 2 – Pilots, Community Activation, and the Power of Storytelling

The second day centred on national pilot projects and community activation. Partners shared progress on toolkit testing, business plan developments, and citizen engagement strategies. These exchanges provided valuable insights into what drives participation and success in local energy communities across the region.

A highlight of the meeting was the Learning Lab “Pričigin” (local slang for Storytelling), inspired by the island’s local storytelling tradition. The session explored how authentic stories and lived experiences can bring meaning, connection, and visibility to the energy transition. It reminded participants that data and policy alone are not enough - it is the human stories behind them that truly inspire action and belonging.

Big thanks to all DECA partners for their dedication, expertise, and contributions that made the Cres meeting a success.