In recent years, the search for new ways of producing energy in a fair way have increased interest for players that are different from the traditional large corporations. People and institutions have come together to become, themselves, energy market players – with the big difference of aiming for positive social impact. So how do these look like?
This new report presents the current landscape of these new players, provides context and very concrete best practices from different countries. It puts particular emphasis on examining relationships between Social Energy Market Players and regional and local public authorities. Indeed, cooperation between regional and local public authorities and civil and private organisations such as cooperatives is key for an effective strategy to combat energy poverty and can play a pivotal role in local social and climate transition agendas.
While there are several successful and innovative Social Energy Market Players models, they are very much the products of particular countries and circumstances. Some cities, particularly in Northern and Western Europe, have been fortunate to inherit well-established local energy providers, sufficient regulatory powers, or a culture of strong civic engagement. In contrast, other cities, typically in more centralised states, have to re-establish and develop capacities and campaign for sufficient regulatory powers.
