The event 'From Renewables to Resilience: Building Stronger Communities and Cities', taking place in Poreč, Croatia, on 18–19 March 2026, focuses on how local authorities and citizens can jointly accelerate the energy transition through community‑energy initiatives. It highlights the economic and social value of locally owned renewable projects, noting that every euro invested in community energy can generate between two and eight euros for local economies. Through workshops and peer learning, participants explore how municipalities can repurpose underused urban spaces, establish energy one‑stop shops and strengthen citizen engagement in shaping their energy future.

The programme has a direct relevance for the built environment, as many community‑energy solutions are deployed on or within buildings. Examples include converting vacant municipal lots and parking areas into collective solar installations, integrating rooftop photovoltaics, and using public buildings as anchors for local energy communities. By linking renewable generation with local governance and citizen participation, the event underscores how buildings can become active contributors to resilience, social cohesion and local economic development.