ManagEnergy Master Class #6: Empowering Local Actors on Financial Instruments

ManagEnergy Master Class #6 on Financial Instruments recently concluded, providing a platform for energy agencies and local authorities to deepen their understanding of project financing. Held across three stages over the month of November 2024 —including online sessions and an engaging face-to-face gathering at the European Committee of the Regions in Brussels—this advanced training offered participants the tools to develop and execute impactful investment programmes.

The session welcomed 17 participants, coming from local authorities and local/regional energy agencies. Guided by trainers from REGEA and other seasoned experts, attendees explored innovative financing mechanisms tailored to three key project types:

• Street lighting modernisation using Smart-EPC models.
• Deep retrofitting of public and residential buildings via PPP and EPC models.
• Renewable energy systems leveraging PPA models.

Through a mix of presentations, practical exercises, and real-world case studies, the class facilitated a hands-on learning experience, fostering dialogue and collaboration.

A Unique Setting: The European Committee of the Regions

This edition stood out, as its face-to-face session was hosted at the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) in Brussels, a key institution supporting local and regional authorities in advancing the EU Green Deal.

Giustino Piccolo from the CoR ENVE Commission underscored the pivotal role of energy agencies in offering technical expertise to local and regional authorities, especially as they face growing challenges in implementing the Green Deal. He highlighted the importance of innovative financing schemes and public-private partnerships to bridge investment gaps and scale up sustainable projects.

Best Practices and Real-World Applications

A highlight of the training was the showcase of best practices. Trainers shared successful examples from across Europe, illustrating how financial models have been implemented in diverse contexts. These examples not only demonstrated the feasibility of large-scale investments but also highlighted the critical role of energy agencies in enabling such projects.

"One of the most valuable aspects of the training was its focus on practical applications. By delving into real-world examples, we empowered participants to bridge the gap between theory and practice in their regions."

Velimir Šegon, Trainer, REGEA

Key Takeaways and Outcomes

By the end of the programme, participants were equipped to:

• Evaluate and select appropriate financial models for their projects;
• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies;
• Create investment programmes for public and private sectors, ranging from €10M to €30M.

Conclusion

This Master Class reaffirmed the importance of building local expertise in financing sustainable energy projects. Learn more about the broader Master Class programme and its contributions to Europe’s sustainable energy landscape on our dedicated webpage.

Discover Master Class 6 in video