Minoan Energy Community in Crete activates for a resilient society

By project CLEAN

Published on 18 March 2022

Greece

Kriti

About this good practice

Minoan Energy Community was founded in Arkalochori city, Crete. Up to now it consists of 313 members (among which three Municipalities and the Region of Crete) and has a portfolio of renewable energy projects. Minoan Energy is a community of solidarity, giving special attention to the vulnerable groups of the population. Its actions aim at the society’s benefit and its ultimate goal is the elimination of energy poverty and the equal access of all Cretan citizens to the energy potential of the island. During the severe conditions due to both the earthquake and the pandemic, the Community's staff is activated and discusses, studies, and proposes realistic solutions with a direct impact on the citizens' quality of life.
Minoan Energy Community has responded to the pandemic in several ways:
- A 405kWp PV Station using virtual net metering has been installed and put in operation, offering to 103 involved members of the community energy self-sufficiency for the next 25 years.
- Energy experts offer non-profit advice to citizens for energy saving measures and energy efficiency upgrade of their residences and to public authorities for energy saving and energy efficiency measures to their buildings.
- The Management Board of Minoan Energy Community, together with the Region of Crete, decided to cover the electricity needs of 80 vulnerable families, affected by the pandemic and the earthquakes. This decision will be implemented by the second PV project of the Community.

Resources needed

The first PV project was 100% funded by the community members. The second one will most probably follow the same practice.
Particularly, the budget of the first project of the community (solar power plant 405kWp) was covered by own membership authorized capitals of 405,000 € (1,000 €/kWp).

Evidence of success

- PVs for net-metering cover members' power consumption.
- Capacity building of Local people through info days and events for the local community awareness.
- Contribution to energy policy for promoting the role of energy communities for the benefit of local community.
- Innovation: Collaboration with local academic and research institutes for the implementation of pioneering and pilot projects.
- Handling of energy poverty: The community is also supported by INZEB.

Potential for learning or transfer

The aspects of this practice can be an example for other regions for a more sustainable future. The establishment of an Energy Community for promoting energy efficiency and supporting vulnerable groups of population can be replicated in every community. It can inspire local authorities, local groups, and the public to follow its example and be more energy efficient and resilient to possible challenges, such as a pandemic. Minoan Energy is a good example of practical cooperation and implementation of straightforward local initiatives to address energy challenges.