CTU Hosts 2nd Stakeholder Meeting on Energy Independence

The meeting was led by project leader Michal Tobiáš, who facilitated an open discussion on strategies to support industries in transitioning to self-sufficient, resilient energy models. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, The Modern Energy Union, ČEZ ESCO a.s., and the Czech Association of Energy Service Providers.

During the meeting, the group collaboratively identified several key market barriers affecting both the private and public sectors. These were categorized into four main areas:

1. Administrative Complexity

• Delays in subsidy processes (ex-post financing) and lack of long-term program stability.
• Strict deadlines and burdensome documentation requirements for grant applications.
• Lack of resources for initial project preparation, including energy audits and feasibility studies.
• Shortage of qualified personnel with technical and project management skills.

Key issue: There is currently no support mechanism for the early-stage preparation of energy projects.

2.  Financial Investment

• Absence of effective tax incentives with low administrative complexity.
• Reluctance to implement measures that would affect public budget revenue streams.
• Low scalability and financial feasibility for projects aiming to cover 70–90% of energy demand from own resources.
• Project reimbursement challenges: If a project is not finalized, banks often refuse to disburse funds.
• Cases were reported where public entities underspent on approved projects, which led to contract cancellations.

3. Lack of Public Awareness and Education

• Insufficient educational outreach to businesses about the benefits and feasibility of energy independence.

• Lack of tailored expert assessments to help companies understand whether they are ready to invest in and implement energy projects.

4. Regulation and Legislative Process

• Complicated and slow permitting procedures for renewable energy projects.
• Lack of transparency in grid connection rules from distribution system operators.
• Priority should shift to building charging infrastructure for e-mobility rather than subsidizing car purchases.
• Investment is needed in grid infrastructure to enable more renewable energy connections.
• Acceleration zones in densely populated areas require updated regulatory conditions adapted to local realities.

Guided by the findings of this meeting, the Repower Industries project, led by CTU, will focus on shaping regional policies, reducing administrative and financial barriers, and enhancing support for project preparation. Over the next three years, the team will also work to raise public and institutional awareness while advocating for regulatory and legislative reforms. Collaborating with national and regional stakeholders, CTU remains committed to fostering a more efficient and supportive environment for industrial energy transition in the Czech Republic.