More information
Description
Energy communities as a social innovation for collective energy actions provide for an open, democratic participation and governance and provide advantages to the members and the local community. The main goal of the project is to raise public awareness in the municipalities of Kostinbrod, Panagyurishte, Tryavna and Dryanovo and energy democracy by means of collective actions to support the energy transition. The project has the following specific objectives: 1) raise public awareness about energy transition; 2) apply social innovation for the sustainable development of resources in the target municipalities; 3) develop strategies for future green citizen initiatives and projects for regional development. The project will provide information about existing EU practices of functioning energy cooperatives and their impact on the income and well-being of citizens as well as about good practices from Norway for sustainable development of local communities. The planned activities are specific, measurable and targeted at changing the attitudes to transition to green energy in the communities. Adding to the efforts of administrations to attract financing and energy efficiency measures, the proactive behaviour of citizens is of particular importance to ensure sustainable development of local communities and improve the quality of life of their citizens. The project is implemented in partnership ensuring a combination of proven expert capacity for its implementation: management and dissemination of the outcomes among 50 Bulgarian municipalities (Association of Bulgarian Cities and Regions), carrying out studies and information campaigns (Institute for Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Development and Innovation) and development of legislative initiatives and training sessions (Bulgarian Energy and Mining Forum). The Norwegian partner B16 presents innovation.