Empowering energy communities across borders: A transnational workshop in Pietracatella
12/12/2024
On December 9, 2024, the Municipality of Pietracatella hosted a pivotal transnational workshop titled "Empowering Energy Communities: Local Action, European Impact."
Welcoming remarks from local leadership
The workshop began with a warm welcome by Mr. Antonio Tomassone, the Mayor of Pietracatella, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable energy goals. Mayor Tomassone emphasized the potential of Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) to unite small producers and consumers in generating and sharing renewable energy. This innovative model aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the REPowerEU Plan, and national energy transition strategies.
Showcasing the CO-CLEAN project
One of the event’s highlights was the presentation of the CO-CLEAN project (CO-designed and implementation of loCal sustainable energy action), a successful initiative co-funded by the European Union under the Italy-Albania-Montenegro Programme 2014-2020. Representing the Municipality of Brindisi, the Lead Partner in CO-CLEAN, Mrs. Gelsomina Macchitella, the CO-CLEAN Project Manager, shared insights into the creation of a local energy community: she underlined the critical role of awareness campaigns and effective communication in overcoming public skepticism and fostering community engagement.
Learning from the Croatian experience
Dr. Alek Dragojec from Grad Labin, a key partner in the CO-MAY project, presented the Croatian model for energy communities. His presentation offered valuable perspectives on challenges such as licensing procedures and energy ownership, providing actionable insights for other regions looking to replicate similar initiatives.
Insights and collaboration for future impact
The workshop concluded with an update on Pietracatella’s energy community project. Mayor Tomassone shared details of an in-depth analysis of local energy consumption patterns and the potential for photovoltaic systems, carried out in collaboration with Legambiente Nazionale. These findings underscore the city’s commitment to implementing innovative solutions and advancing energy independence.
An opportunity for dialogue and innovation
This event was not only a knowledge-sharing lively platform but also a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Municipalities of Pietracatella, Mesagne, and Labin. Through mutual dialogue and shared learning, the workshop underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation in creating a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
