On 3 October, the Climate and Energy Fund launched its new call for applications for the Energy Communities programme. The focus is on supporting innovative energy communities (ECs) that can serve as role models for new communities in other regions.

As a new instrument of Austrian energy policy, energy communities are intended to actively involve the public in the energy transition and make a significant contribution to the decentralisation, decarbonisation, democratisation, and digitalisation of the energy system. The current call is therefore aimed at energy communities that serve as flagship and model projects with an innovative character (criteria listed under point 3 in the guidelines) and therefore require a greater level of planning effort.

Innovation. For example, ECs that develop or expand a technology mix of new renewable generation capacities (electricity and heat) are considered worthy of support. ECs that wish to implement system-beneficial measures — i.e., those that help relieve pressure on electricity grids — can also be eligible. This can be achieved through the installation of storage systems or energy management measures. Concepts that incorporate mobility and/or heating applications, or that place a focus on community social aspects and specific ecological objectives, are also considered innovative. One such social aspect could be, for example, a tariff system that benefits low-income households.

It's important that the submitted project has model character and can be replicated in a similar form elsewhere. The concepts must remain manageable to administer and must not restrict the rights and obligations of the participating network users, in particular the freedom to choose their supplier. All findings gained through the project will be made available to the public.

All information on the call for applications at: energiegemeinschaften.gv.at