The event marked an important milestone for the region, showcasing how the HERCULES-CE pilot action supported the transformation of the former Tomaszów Energy Cluster into a fully operational, forward-looking energy cooperative.
From Energy Cluster to Energy Cooperative
The main objective of the Infoday organized by the Marshal Office of the Lubelskie Voivodship was to present the outcomes of the HERCULES-CE pilot action, which focused on improving the business model and energy performance of a regional Renewable Energy Community. As a result of the pilot activities, the Tomaszów Energy Cluster evolved into the Roztocze Energy Cooperative ‘RSE’.
Participants were introduced to the findings of the energy efficiency and business model assessment. The analysis highlighted that the long-term development of an energy community should focus not only on expanding renewable energy generation capacity but, above all, on optimising energy consumption within the community.
The assessment also demonstrated the benefits of a phased approach to the development of Renewable Energy Communities – from increasing photovoltaic generation capacity, through the implementation of energy storage systems, to more advanced solutions that improve overall energy performance.
Such an approach helps reduce financial risks, enables more informed investment decisions and strengthens stakeholder acceptance. Recommendations for the further development of the cooperative were also presented and discussed.
Inside the REC Manager: Data-Driven Energy Management
A key session of the event was dedicated to the REC Manager, a digital platform developed within the HERCULES-CE project to streamline the management of energy communities.
Using data from selected “RSE” members, the project team conducted simulations to test the tool’s core functionalities. Participants observed how to set up accounts, input energy data, and utilize the main features of the dashboard. The workshop also provided valuable feedback for future upgrades, with users suggesting enhancements in data automation and access management for larger community networks.
“The REC Manager has great potential to support Renewable Energy Communities by providing data-driven insights for decision-making. Today’s workshop also showed the value of continuous dialogue between developers and end users to further improve the platform.”
–Infoday participants’ feedback
Next Steps for Roztocze Energy Cooperative
The Info Day concluded with the official signing of a project declaration by the President of the Roztocze Energy Cooperative “RSE”.
By signing this document, the cooperative formally expressed its commitment to:
- continuous testing and active use of the REC Manager platform;
- capacity building through upcoming specialized training and workshops;
- cooperation with international HERCULES-CE project partners.
The event highlighted both the progress made by the Roztocze Energy Cooperative and the potential of digital tools to support energy communities. The experience gained and feedback collected during the workshops will contribute to the further testing and development of the REC Manager platform.