Inspiring Examples and Best Practices

About

The Green Energy Cooperative (ZEZ) was established in 2013 as part of the project Development of Energy Cooperatives in Croatia implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Upon completion of the project, ZEZ continues to operate independently and to this day becomes the umbrella organization in the field of citizen energy in Croatia and the region.

Mission

To promote energy cooperatives as a model for energy transition and renewable energy as a solution to the energy crisis and climate change and assist citizens in their involvement in the development, investment and use of renewable energy sources enabling citizens’ participation in planning, decision-making, construction and energy production, as well as in profit sharing.

Activities

They encourage the development of social entrepreneurship in the energy sector and develop concrete and sustainable solutions that enhance the development of local communities including educational and consulting activities.

ZEZ has developed the “On the Sunny Side” platform to connect people without solar with solar designers, processes, economic considerations and installers offering high-quality advice, education and daily support to citizens across Croatia in the implementation of solar power plants for households. This support includes advisory assistance, project creation, and connection of individuals with verified installers.

Additionally, ZEZ co-founded the ZEZ Sun cooperative which provides Croatians with the opportunity to invest in and own solar projects on municipal buildings. The first ZEZ Sun project, a 200 kW solar PV plant at the City Market in the City of Križevci, was funded in March 2024. In 2018 and 2019 and in collaboration with the City of Križevci, ZEZ also successfully implemented Križevci Solar Roofs, the first community energy projects in Croatia with 30 kW solar PV plants at two citizen-funded public buildings.

Distinctive Good Practice

ZEZ carries expertise in the development of new, innovative economic models for the use of renewable energy sources that are adapted to the needs and problems of local communities.

In autumn 2022, ZEZ launched ‘Ease Their Troubles’ (Umanjimo im brige), a donation campaign to help older citizens living in energy poverty save on their monthly bills. With the help of local organisations working with similar target groups, such as the Red Cross Initiative, ZEZ identified vulnerable citizens who would benefit from an Energy Savings Package through which a household can save up to 1,300 kwh of thermal energy and up to 370 kwh of electricity annually. While at the home.

Benefits to Participating individuals

ZEZ’s efforts have resulted in financial benefits for investors, creating a sense of community ownership and fostering stronger ties with local municipalities. Plans for the future include uniting citizens through local energy communities, and using solar energy as a tool for social cohesion, and sustainable development.