European islands as laboratories for community energy
European islands as laboratories for community energy
A European initiative is encouraging Mediterranean islands to lead the energy transition through local communities, combining technical innovation and citizen engagement to overcome structural barriers.
The European project LIFE ISLET positions Mediterranean islands as strategic actors in the energy transition, within a context shaped by high energy supply costs, dependence on fossil fuels, and increasing exposure to the impacts of climate change. In response to these constraints, the initiative promotes a replicable model based on renewable energy communities, where the active involvement of citizens and local authorities becomes a structural element of change.
The recent call for interest for energy communities reinforces this approach by opening the network to new islands, consolidating a collaborative ecosystem that has already begun to generate insights from pilot experiences. These demonstrate that the energy transition goes beyond purely technological solutions and requires addressing social dimensions such as trust, participation, and new forms of shared governance. To support this process, LIFE ISLET provides technical and administrative assistance tools that simplify the implementation of these initiatives and improve access to funding.
Islands interested in developing a renewable energy community through the ISLET approach can submit their expression of interest via the link provided in the call.