DECA hosted its first online training: Introduction to Community Energy

From exploring community energy fundamentals to hearing real-life examples from across the EU and UK, our speakers shared insights to help you take the first steps toward creating citizen-led energy initiatives in your community.

Key topics covered by the online training

What is community energy? Understand the concepts of community energy and energy communities Explore real-life examples from across the EU and UK that showcase its transformative potential, and benefits to the local communities.

Community energy fundamentals. Learn about governance models, collective financing, stakeholder engagement, and navigating energy legislation. Discover how to build strong, sustainable foundations for your energy initiatives.

Technical possibilities. Explore renewable energy technologies, EV charging solutions, small heat networks, and retrofitting strategies. Understand how to integrate these innovations into your community projects.

The role of social entrepreneurship. How to embrace mission-driven leadership, co-creation, and design thinking to lead impactful initiatives. How community energy drives both social and economic transformation.

Key takeaways

Here are the key training takeaways for all citizens, local organizations, community organizers, policymakers, and anyone eager to create energy solutions that put people at the center of the energy transition.

Make sure you cover all the fundamentals of an effective community energy initiative. Choose the most efficient governance structure that fits your circumstances, country’s regulations, and which gives everyone a voice.

Energy communities aren’t just about technical solutions, you don’t have to do everything. Think about the problem you’re trying to solve where you are and build from there.

Social Entrepreneurship: Energy communities are built by the people, for the people. Real change happens only when we inspire and empower individuals to take action.

Stay Connected with the DECA Project

Would you like to stay updated on upcoming online trainings, resources, and success stories from energy communities across the region? Head to our website and subscribe to receiving these updates to your email.

Join the national trainings on community energy in 2025

As part of the DECA project, we’re dedicated to empowering communities across the Danube region with the knowledge, tools, and support to take charge of their energy transitions. In early 2025, we’re introducing online training and coaching sessions tailored to the specific needs of countries across the Danube region. These sessions will feature customized content and dedicated support to empower you in driving impactful community energy initiatives. Hope to see you there!

We’re excited to continue this journey with you toward a sustainable, resilient energy future for the Danube region and SE Europe.