How can regions and cities in central Europe accelerate their shift to clean energy while ensuring fairness and effectiveness? A new handbook developed through the ESPON CleanEnergy4CE targeted analysis provides timely answers.
Supported by Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE, the handbook delivers evidence-based insights and practical guidance to policymakers and stakeholders at all levels of governance. It responds to the urgent need for coordinated action by drawing on robust territorial evidence—including data analysis, expert interviews, surveys, and regional mapping.
From data to action: a comprehensive resource for policymakers
The handbook identifies key challenges and enablers of the energy transition in central Europe, offering practical recommendations in five critical areas:
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Tracking emissions trends to understand progress and gaps
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Improving the implementation of strategies and action plans
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Enhancing access to funding for clean energy measures
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Boosting cooperation across regions, sectors, and governance levels
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Strengthening capacity building to empower local and regional actors
What sets this handbook apart is its combination of strategic guidance with grounded examples. It features real-world case studies from nine central European countries, showcasing how regions and municipalities are developing innovative and transferable solutions tailored to their local contexts.
A tool to support place-based decision-making
As the EU intensifies efforts to meet its 2030 and 2050 climate goals, this resource supports more informed and context-sensitive policymaking. It helps align local, regional and national actions, ensuring that no territory is left behind in the clean energy transition.
Whether you are designing national frameworks or leading local initiatives, the CleanEnergy4CE handbook is a valuable tool for fostering a greener, more resilient central Europe.