A threat for a citizens energy transition in Europe
Energy communities offer a democratic, just and sustainable alternative to the current energy system’s pitfalls, allowing citizens to meet their energy needs while reclaiming control over renewable energy production. Grounded in principles of autonomy, inclusivity, and social benefit, Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) are key to delivering a just energy transition, a vision supported by the EU’s Clean Energy for All Europeans Package.
However, the growing consumer interest and financial incentives of this model has attracted corporate interest, leading to instances of corporate capture across Europe. Loopholes in legal definitions, weak oversight, and inconsistent national implementation have enabled large companies to misappropriate the energy community label—undermining its purpose and disadvantaging genuine citizen-led initiatives.
Friends of the Earth Europe has commissioned Eco-union to investigate these developments, mapping out examples of corporate capture, examining the systemic flaws that allow it, and offering actionable recommendations to safeguard the integrity of energy communities.
Read the full report here and check out the different national case studies: Belgium, Greece, Hungary, Portugal, Spain.
