Consensus conferences on energy in Pomorze region

Description

The project of the Institute for Eco-development Foundation and the Foundation Pole Dialogu aims at implementing the participatory method of consensus conference as an opportunity for citizens to get reliable knowledge on complex issues and voice their opinions on subjects usually commented only by experts. Consensus conferences on energy issues in 4 municipalities in Starogard county and facilitating cooperation between local governments are planned. The project will be implemented under the preparations of the county's Low-Carbon Development Programme. The LDP should lead to building permanent relations between the county and its municipalities, and the project should enhance the process. Beneficiaries of the project are inhabitants, local authorities and local NGOs. In all, over 400 people from 4 municipalities will acquire knowledge useful in their further activities. The project will enhance citizen participation in the local energy policy.

Summary of project results

"The way public consultations are rolled out in Poland hampers prospects for making a contribution to the debate. Challenging issues, which often resonate with citizens, are frequently tackled exclusively by experts. All of us consume energy, but decisions concerning local energy plans and strategies are being made with no involvement of the community concerned. The goal of the project was to include citizens from four municipalities of Starogard county in the discussion dedicated to local energy issues through their participation in energy-related citizens summits being a vehicle of social engagement in the public policy-making. Citizens of the rural commune of Starogard Gdański, the City of Starogard Gdański, the municipality of Zblewo and the municipality of Kaliska took part in energy citizens summits. Each municipality hosted four summits preceded by preparatory workshops and culminated with public hearings which presented citizens with an opportunity to put forward together social recommendations. Other project initiatives included hosting of the websitewww.wlacz-sie.pl and the project Facebook fan page. Deliverables of the project, including practical tips related to moderating citizens summits, were published in the brochure “Step-by-Step Guide to the Citizens Summit."" Social recommendations put together by citizens from all municipalities were embedded in the County Program for Low-Carbon Development, while local authorities signed the letter of intent on cooperation related to implementation of recommendations and promotion of the citizens summit method. Direct beneficiaries of the project included citizens of four municipalities that hosted energy citizens summits. The project generated additional benefits for local NGOs and informal groups, leaders, activists and social activists, heads of municipalities/ city majors and officials from municipalities participating in the project, neighboring municipalities and the entire county. The project partner was accountable for tasks related to social participation. It leveraged its experience in moderating, animating, and research to develop reports, deliver workshops and summit meetings, and conduct assessment of the project."

Summary of bilateral results