_{Source: aws-institut.de}

The InEExS project, co-funded by the European Union, presents a strategic roadmap to modernise Europe’s energy systems through the integration of smart technologies and blockchain. With energy efficiency at its core, the initiative addresses the pressing need to overcome regulatory, financial, and market barriers that hinder innovation across Member States. The report outlines a dual mission: to dismantle systemic obstacles and to prioritise viable smart services capable of linking energy sectors and carriers.

At the heart of the project are five Business Cases, each demonstrating real-world applications of smart energy solutions—from optimising solar self-consumption in Germany to deploying IoT upgrades for legacy gas boilers in Greece. These pilots showcase the potential of decentralised models, peer-to-peer trading, and demand-side flexibility. The report identifies 18 key barriers, ranging from data privacy concerns to fragmented market rules, and proposes targeted policy and financial reforms.

Among the most compelling recommendations are the creation of national green energy funds, the standardisation of renewable energy incentives, and the development of GDPR-compliant data platforms. The roadmap also calls for pilot programmes to test blockchain applications and urges Member States to simplify access to public funding. These measures aim to empower consumers, support energy communities, and accelerate the adoption of smart technologies across Europe.

Ultimately, the InEExS roadmap offers a pragmatic yet ambitious vision for the continent’s energy transition. By aligning technological innovation with policy reform and stakeholder engagement, it lays the groundwork for a more efficient, decentralised, and consumer-driven energy future—one that is both environmentally sustainable and economically inclusive.