What You Need to Know from COMMIT’s Problem-Solving Workshop

Are you interested in designing strategies that support SME’s transition to low-carbon economies? If so, COMMIT’s Problem-Solving Workshop (PSW) is a helpful stop on your journey, as the PSW looks into strategy design processes to support SMEs in adapting to stricter energy and climate regulations. Part A of the workshop took place in July, laying the groundwork for a more in-depth exploration in Part B, scheduled for September during COMMIT’s seminar in Slovenia. This upcoming Part B session promises to be packed with valuable insights and practical exchanges aimed at equipping SMEs to meet the demands of a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. Continue reading to recap Part A!

First, let’s rewind a bit. COMMIT’s first Coffee-Break Workshop provided an initial opportunity for partners to compare their regional action plans. While many similarities and differences were highlighted, critical shortcomings stood out:

• Targeting of SMEs in energy policies: although SMEs are vital for regional and national economies, existing energy policies tend to overlook them. While SMEs are included among policy beneficiaries, they are not specifically targeted, leading to a gap in support and guidance.
• Trust and transparency issues: many SMEs feel unheard by policymakers and strategy-implementing bodies. There is a noticeable lack of trust, coupled with concerns over the management of funds, which partners believe could be improved.
• Challenges in local energy policies: despite the diversity of COMMIT partner regions, local energy policies often face significant obstacles related to the development, implementation, monitoring, and management of strategies. These challenges make it difficult for SMEs to navigate the complex regulatory web.

These insights are not just relevant for the regions involved in COMMIT—they reflect broader challenges that SMEs across Europe face. By addressing these issues head-on, the PSW aims to trigger meaningful policy changes that can benefit SMEs far beyond the immediate project scope.

To ensure Part B addresses the most pressing issues and relevant solutions, a detailed questionnaire was shared in Part A to gather insights from COMMIT’s partners in different regions. The goal is to uncover common practices, shared hardships, mutual interests, and good practice examples that could drive effective policy changes. The focus is on SMEs urgently needing restructuring to comply with the European Union's increasingly stringent energy and climate regulations. The challenges identified in the questionnaire were grouped into seven key areas:

• Financial barriers: High initial costs, limited access to financing, and concerns over return on investment.
• Awareness and expertise gaps: Lack of knowledge and technical capacity to implement energy-saving measures effectively.
• Policy and regulatory issues: the complexity and inconsistency of regulations that SMEs must navigate.
• Organisational constraints: limited resources and the potential for operational disruptions when adopting new strategies.
• Market barriers: supply chain issues and economies of scale that disadvantage smaller enterprises.
• Behavioural and cultural resistance: hesitation to change and perceived risks associated with adopting new practices.
• Information and communication issues: insufficient tailored information and ineffective communication channels.

Building on the findings from Part A and the Coffee-Break Workshop, the upcoming PSW session in September will delve deeper into designing strategies that address the identified challenges. In the seminar, we’ll discuss more concrete conclusions from the questionnaires including practical solutions that can be implemented to help SMEs thrive in a low-carbon economy - such as financial incentives; enhanced awareness and training; simplified regulations; support services; promoting collaboration; and sharing success stories.

As we look ahead to Part B of the workshop, it's clear that the challenges SMEs face in transitioning to low-carbon practices are significant—but so are the opportunities. By coming together to share insights, explore solutions, and collaborate on strategies, we can pave the way for a more sustainable, resilient future. So stay tuned to find out more!