Regional funding for local advisors (CIRENA) to support citizens' initiatives
About this good practice
In order to get involved in new Energy Community, people need a good level of information and support. They particularly need an expert of the various stages of setting up an energy community.
By financing CIRENA activities in the territory, the Region of Nouvelle Aquitaine, allows an identified contact for the citizens and the local authorities.
The practice benefits several stakeholders: Citizens, project owners, emerging EC, local authorities (elected and services)
Cirena's fields of action
Phase 1: Information for the public, raising awareness.
feedback or conferences. The aim is to participate in the awareness process on renewable energy with other organisations.
Phase 2: Emergence of citizen project leaders.
CIRENA supports new communities that contact the association in order to create a citizens' project dynamic. This phase goes as far as supporting the "project group" in its definition and structuring of the group as a community. CIRENA can also help project leaders to obtain contracts and subsidies.
Phase 3: Development of citizen projects.
The support includes legal and technical advice as well as networking with peers and stakeholders in the citizen energy ecosystem. CIRENA also helps to structure a communication plan to mobilise local support.
Phase 4: Bringing citizen renewable energy projects to success.
By relaying good practices through publications, communications and other stakeholders’ networks, CIRENA encourages local initiatives in energy initiatives.
Resources needed
2023 : 5 full time equivalent jobs
Breakdown of operating incomes:
-80% public subsidies (50% from Ademe (=The French Agency for Ecological Transition) and 50% from La Région Nouvelle Aquitaine)
-20% services provided.
Evidence of success
The number of Energy Communities applying for regional support has risen steadily since 2017.
Cirena's actions in the region are intensifying, the number of workshops held is increasing. 1710 citizens have been in contact with Cirena in 2023.
The agreement between Cirena and Ademe sets a specific number of support measures. We have seen an increase in the number of requests and support provided by Cirena over the last three years.
Potential for learning or transfer
Basic support from an Energy Communities expert is a key factor of success for a project. Several partners identified this need in their territory analysis.
Cirena's operations can be replicated elsewhere, or at least some key aspects:
- The settlement of a network of advisors that can support project owners. An accessible one stop shop with a trusted third party can reassure EC members that are not energy experts.
- The creation of a support offer helps projects to emerge by considering different phases of the project and different level of support.
- The ability to call on innovative skills, such as sociology, to broaden the areas of competence of local stakeholders.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
