Reflections on the NRGCOM Project Partner Meeting in Budva

From October 8 to 10, 2024, the NRGCOM project partners gathered in Budva, Montenegro, to assess progress and strategize future actions aimed at enhancing renewable energy communities in the Danube Region. This meeting, supported by the Interreg Danube Region Programme and co-funded by the European Union, provided a platform for collaborative discussions on project achievements, upcoming tasks, and policy recommendations.

The session commenced with an opening address by Réka Zulauf, Consortium Manager, who provided an overview of the project’s first reporting period. Nóra Horváth from STRIA followed with a presentation on initial results and insights, setting the stage for further discussions on progress and strategy.

Key sessions included a review of the first reporting period and preparation for the second phase, where the team assessed initial project outcomes and outlined guidelines for reporting and strategic planning. Activity leaders from IMRO, IRENA, REDASP, STRIA, and OER presented their progress and outlined upcoming plans for their respective initiatives, focusing on enhancing operational conditions for renewable energy and implementing strategies at local levels. A dedicated session led by DIT involved discussions on planning and executing further activities, identifying actionable steps and milestones to ensure progress aligns with project goals. Additionally, JAIP provided a review of NRGCOM’s communication efforts to date, highlighting achievements in outreach and proposing future strategies to boost project visibility and stakeholder engagement.

A joint workshop led by STRIA explored policy recommendations derived from recent roundtable discussions and outlined the content and structure for the forthcoming Strategy document. This interactive session allowed partners to shape the strategic direction of the project, ensuring alignment with the energy policy needs of the Danube Region.

The meeting concluded with a city tour of Budva and networking dinners, fostering stronger collaboration among partners as they continue working towards renewable energy advancements.

The NRGCOM project aims to create appropriate operational conditions for renewable energy communities in the Danube Region. By reviewing national legal frameworks, analyzing operational practices, and developing sustainable strategies, NRGCOM seeks to remove barriers hindering the proper functioning of renewable energy communities. The project emphasizes raising awareness and promoting community self-sufficiency through public campaigns and expert workshops, accelerating the transition to renewable energy across the region. Supported by the Interreg Danube Region Programme and co-financed by the European Union, NRGCOM is committed to facilitating the green transition and increasing energy efficiency in the Danube Region.