Energy Communities and steps towards the energy transition at the Alba Green Energy Fair

On September 19-20, in Alba Iulia, Romania, the Alba Green Energy Fair took place, an event that brings together innovation, sustainability and green solutions. The presence of DECA at this event provided an opportunity for dialogue and connection with citizens, with whom we discussed how communities can collaborate to produce and utilise renewable energy.

Why are Energy Communities important? The energy transition means, above all, social change. Energy Communities are participatory structures through which citizens, authorities, NGOs and SMEs become partners in generating and consuming green energy. The benefits are multiple: reducing energy poverty, lowering bills and making steps toward energy independence.

What has the DECA project achieved so far? In Romania, DECA has already taken several important steps:

• a national assessment of the needs and barriers that obstruct the development of Energy Communities;

• a Training Program on Energy Communities;

• the design of community energy projects;

• the foundation of a national Resource Hub for Energy Communities.

Energy Communities are not an abstract concept, but a real opportunity for citizens and local communities to build their energy independence and contribute to the energy transition. With DECA’s support, these concepts gain direction, tools and the potential to become success stories that can be replicated nationwide.

Participation in the Alba Green Energy Fair confirmed that in Romania, there is a desire for involvement and a community drive ready to be transformed into concrete solutions.