The European Union-funded IRENE project is pioneering a people-centred approach to tackling energy poverty through inclusive renovation programmes in multi-apartment buildings. Coordinated by Global Factor and supported by the LIFE Clean Energy Transition Programme, the initiative seeks to make energy-efficient housing accessible to vulnerable households, ensuring that no community is left behind in Europe's transition to climate neutrality. By combining social equity with environmental ambition, IRENE demonstrates how renovation policies can improve living conditions while building stronger, more resilient communities.

Through four pilot cities and a multidisciplinary consortium of ten partners, IRENE develops practical solutions that support residents throughout the renovation journey, from awareness-raising and capacity building to technical, financial, and legal assistance. The project's innovative Energy Justice Hubs foster collaboration between citizens, authorities, researchers, and industry actors, creating lasting local networks for change. Ultimately, IRENE aims to deliver measurable social, environmental, and economic benefits while providing a replicable model for fair energy renovation across Europe.