How to develop a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP)

This new edition of the Covenant of Mayors SECAP Guidebook, published by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), offers a comprehensive and updated roadmap to help local and regional authorities design and implement their Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAPs).

Built around the pillars of mitigation, adaptation, and energy poverty alleviation, the guide outlines the full SECAP cycle—from political engagement and stakeholder mobilisation to action planning, financing, and monitoring. It also integrates the latest EU policy priorities under the European Green Deal, Climate Law, and revised energy directives (e.g. EPBD, EED, RED).

🧩 Key elements covered:

• Setting GHG, adaptation, and energy poverty targets
• Baseline emission and vulnerability assessments
• Strategic action planning and financing
• Inclusive governance and stakeholder engagement
• Monitoring and revision of SECAPs over time

📚 The guidebook is accompanied by five technical documents offering step-by-step guidance on emissions inventories, risk assessments, energy poverty diagnostics, action planning, and financing.

🔗 Access the guidebook