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ManagEnergy
  • News blog
  • 7 October 2024
  • European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency
  • 1 min read

Citizen and cooperative renewable energies in Occitanie

In 2014, the Occitanie Region set forth an ambitious plan to promote Citizen and Cooperative Renewable Energy (EnRCC), with the goal of launching 500 projects and engaging 100,000 citizen shareholders by the year 2030.

Illustration : © CatEnR
Illustration : © CatEnR

Citizen and Cooperative Renewable Energy (EnRCC) is a key approach for empowering citizens and local communities to take ownership of energy projects, actively participate in the energy transition, and boost the economic benefits for their region.

The Occitanie Regional Energy and Climate Agency (AREC Occitanie) plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of EnRCC through a variety of initiatives. In 2019, they conducted a regional study that highlighted the significant economic impact of citizen-led renewable energy projects. The 39 projects they supported are expected to generate €66 million in local economic benefits for the region over a typical 20-year lifespan.

The study also underscored the powerful multiplier effect of public funding. For every euro of public subsidy invested, €50 in economic value is created for the local economy. It further emphasized the social benefits of citizen-led initiatives, as local stakeholders—including residents, authorities, and community organizations—are the decision-makers for these projects. This ensures that 100% of the profits stay within the community, largely reinvested into new local projects with a smaller portion going to the investors.

AREC Occitanie also runs a collaborative online platform that lists ongoing initiatives, provides useful resources, and encourages knowledge sharing. In addition, they manage a network of project leaders, helping to foster new initiatives and build stakeholder expertise.

In 2023, the region introduced two new programs under AREC’s management. The first is the CoTOITurage platform, which connects property owners looking to install photovoltaic systems on their roofs with project leaders focused on local governance. Within a few months, 40 rooftops were available for projects.

The second initiative is a new regional funding tool that invests in renewable energy projects led by citizens or local authorities. This tool specifically targets projects under 500 KW, fully financed by local communities. By November 2023, several project leaders had already expressed interest.

As of December 2023, AREC had supported 65 installations, involving 5,300 citizen shareholders.

 

Source: Occitanie Regional Energy and Climate Agency

www.arec-occitanie.fr

 

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