New Citizen Energy Advisory Hub to boost a citizen-led energy transition

The European Commission is launching the Citizen Energy Advisory Hub (CEAH), a pioneering initiative designed to promote a bottom-up approach to the energy transition, enhance citizen participation and strengthen the social dimension across EU countries.

This 3-year project has been established in alignment with the EU’s climate and energy targets for 2030 and the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. It also reflects aspects of the Affordable Energy Action Plan, published in February, and anticipates known elements of the Citizens Energy Package, due for presentation end of the year. As Europe moves towards a more decentralised and decarbonised energy system, the Advisory Hub will serve as a key resource to help local communities, citizens, municipalities, NGOs and small businesses control their energy bills by consuming their own renewable energy and reducing or shifting their energy demand.

By aiding progress towards more affordable energy, demand response, improved energy efficiency and access to renewable energy across the EU, CEAH’s activities will accelerate the widespread implementation of EU legislation. It should also help EU countries to create the right conditions for sustainable energy projects that benefit their citizens and communities. It will foster dialogues, enhance citizen engagement in sustainable energy projects, and build capacity for various stakeholders, including vulnerable households and those experiencing energy poverty. This is epitomised by the provision of direct technical assistance to 120 selected citizens and/or local actors, to help them plan, develop, or scale up sustainable energy projects. Other activities will include developing resources, providing networking opportunities and creating local dialogue with citizens around the energy transition.

CEAH will collaborate with other EU initiatives to establish clear pathways for citizens and local actors to access the relevant support, empowering them to contribute to and benefit from the clean energy transition.