Q: Who were your digital ambassadors?
A: The Foundation appointed Prof. Giuseppe Torluccio, the Foundation’s Vice President and a Professor of Sustainable Finance at the University of Bologna, and the Foundation’s Consultant for Environmental Sustainability. Their expertise in sustainable finance, policy, and renewable energy meant they were trusted mediators between municipalities, enterprises, and citizens.
Q: What was their role?
A: Acting as educators and network builders, the ambassadors organised a series of workshops and consultations across eight municipalities in spring 2025. These sessions introduced the concept of Renewable Energy Communities (CERs) and explained the relevant regulatory and technical frameworks. They also encouraged collaboration among local administrations, SMEs, and civil society. A final online meeting in June brought all municipalities together to consolidate the lessons learned and explore regional cooperation.
Q: What worked well?
A: Municipal administrations showed strong enthusiasm for CERs, appreciating the clear and practical guidance provided. The initiative also created a new space for inter-municipal dialogue, encouraging cooperation where previously municipalities had worked in isolation.
Q: What challenges did you face?
A: Barriers included the complexity of the regulatory framework, the high upfront costs of renewable energy infrastructure, and the limited technical expertise within local administrations. It was also challenging to engage SMEs and citizens, as many focused on individual rather than collective benefits. Negotiations with distribution system operators also slowed progress.
Q: Did you receive any feedback from the community?
A: The feedback was positive. A municipal officer from Pieve di Cento noted: ‘For years, we have discussed the energy transition in abstract terms. This was the first time we could clearly see what steps to take and who to involve.’ The mayor of San Pietro in Casale added, ‘Pooling resources with neighbouring municipalities now seems both feasible and economically sensible.’ Local enterprises also recognised the broader community value of CERs, beyond reducing energy costs.