Achieving Europe’s Energy & Climate Goals Through Local Action

Cities and regions play a pivotal role in combating climate change, but while the Cities Mission supports over 100 European cities in reaching climate neutrality by 2050, many of Europe's 88,000 sub-national authorities struggle to keep pace. These local governments often lack the tools, funding, and expertise needed to meet climate and energy goals, especially when it comes to securing financing and applying innovative planning strategies. Without significant changes, they risk falling short of critical EU targets.

This interactive session will delve into pathways for a successful energy transition, with insights from senior city and regional leaders. Participants will engage in discussions on practical methods to plan, fund, and execute the energy transition, offering a platform for shaping policies and promoting shared learning.

The session is a crucial opportunity for local authorities to gain the knowledge and strategies necessary to advance Europe’s sustainable energy agenda. Through real-world examples from various European regions, the projects IN-PLAN, Regio1st, and PROSPECT+ will be showcased, highlighting how energy and spatial planning can be successfully integrated. This event will bridge the gap between theoretical policies and practical, actionable solutions.

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Draft Agenda

14:45 - Setting the Scene: Giulia Pizzini (IEECP) will share insights on incorporating energy strategies into spatial planning and increasing the use of innovative financing in energy investments, drawing from REGIO1st, PROSPECT+, and IN-PLAN.

14:50 - Keynote Speech: Georg Houben (Policy Officer, Local Initiatives Team, European Commission, Brussels)

15:00 - Panel Discussion: Lessons from Local Leaders and Investors

• EE1st in Local Planning, Implementation, and Review: Maria Belarmina Diaz Aguado, Asturian General Director of Energy, FAEN, Asturia Region, Spain
• Overcoming Regulatory Barriers with New Financing Models: Mario Rajn, Mayor of Križevci, Croatia
• Insights from Flanders and the Committee of the Regions: Andries Gryffroy, Member of Flemish Parliament, Belgium
• Flemish Experience on the Local Energy and Climate Pact: Elise Steyaert, VITO, Belgium
• Open Discussion with Participants

15:25 -Conclusions