Matthias Ghyselen is coordinator of Citizen Services at Energent, a Ghent-based cooperative focused on energy efficiency, renewable solutions, and building renovation services. Founded in 2013, Energent enables collective citizen investment in solar, wind, heating, and refurbishment projects, supporting active involvement in the energy transition. In his role, Ghyselen works on user-oriented energy services and renovation support, contributing to the development of practical models that help households and communities take part directly in this transition.

The interview focused on key aspects of citizen participation in the energy transition, particularly the barriers households face when engaging in energy communities and renovation projects. It also explored lessons learned from early project phases, effective strategies to mobilise and sustain citizen involvement, and the potential of the Citizens Energy Package to overcome existing challenges while highlighting areas where further support is still needed.

The BUILD UP Expert Talks series is an initiative of the BUILD UP portal and features face-to-face interviews with experts from across Europe, offering diverse perspectives on key topics related to energy efficiency and renewable energy in buildings. These interviews align with the Topic of the Month and explore it in depth, providing valuable insights, experiences, and expertise to the BUILD UP audience.