Energy-efficient renovation and encouraging “prosumer” behaviour through energy cooperatives are proven measures that support the sustainable energy transition. However, neither building renovation programmes nor creating energy cooperatives is usually accompanied by adequate communication campaigns. This makes these successful practices invisible to both citizens and potential investors.

The CONGREGATE project worked towards the above directions and combined two distinctive actions:

• To promote interest and participation in building renovation;
• To promote the creation of energy cooperatives. 

During the project lifespan (Nov. 2020 – Mar. 2023) the project developed a communication strategy to support national building renovation strategies in Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania, and organised local, regional, and national events to promote this strategy. For each country, the project monitored and analysed how current renovation programmes impact residents’ energy and financial savings as well their behaviours and attitudes. Results from the study inform future national campaigns for civic engagement in building renovation programmes.

CONGREGATE project also promoted the establishment of public-private renewable energy cooperatives in Bulgaria, Greece, and the Czech Republic. Three case studies per country were examined while one feasibility study was prepared for each of the involved municipalities. The project also organised events to raise awareness among municipalities and citizens to promote and discuss the results of the studies.

The online event aims to present the project methodology and results and will the potential for replication.

The working language will be English. There is no attendance cost for this workshop, but registration is required. Scan the QR code in the photo above to register for the event.

The event is co-organised by CONGREGATE project partners EnEffect (BG), Center for the Study of Democracy (BG), Cluster for Promoting Nearly Zero Energy Buildings Pro-Nzeb (RO), INZEB (GR), SEVEn (CZ), University of Zagreb – Faculty of Civil Engineering (HR).

AGENDA (Timings are in CET)