Technical Aspects (Technicalities)

Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency refers to the practice of using less energy for the same output, and minimising energy waste. It is a key component in developing a sustainable and low-carbon energy system, as it helps reduce overall energy demands. For energy communities, focusing on energy efficiency can help balance consumption with renewable energy production, making it an ideal area of activity.

Energy Communities can play a significant role in promoting energy efficiency through various initiatives. They can help combat energy poverty by providing affordable or even free energy services to both members and non-members and vulnerable and low-income households, focusing on savings measures in the building sector, such as improving insulation, replacing windows, and upgrading lighting systems. Encouraging community members to invest in energy-saving measures can also help them reduce their energy bills, fostering trust and expertise within the community.

Many national and European transition scenarios emphasize the importance of energy efficiency, and studies have shown that membership in Energy Communities can lead to significant reductions in personal energy consumption.

EXAMPLE:

• Som Energia (Spain) is using interactive invoicing called ‘InfoEnergia’ to inform its members about their private energy consumption. Instead of just sending invoices Som Energia also sends reports on the energy use of their customers. In this report, customers are compared with similar household benchmarks, in previous periods. They also get personalized energy-saving tips. Through targeted tips and tricks, the cooperative helps its members reduce their average energy consumption.

CHECK OUT:

• The revised Energy Efficiency Directive (EU/2023/1791) significantly raises the EU’s ambition for energy efficiency.
• POWERPOOR: Energy Poverty Guidebook for Energy Planning.