The steady path
The Polish partner has a significant potential for renewable energy development. Building on knowledge gained through Interreg projects like ENES-CE and AgroRES, Lubelskie is applying its expertise in supporting community-based energy initiatives. HERCULES-CE is a crucial project on the way of facilitating further growth of the regional energy clusters.
Within the project, Lubelskie selected the Tomaszów Energy Cluster (TEC) as a core partner for the pilot action. Together with the cluster coordinator – TermoSystemy Ltd. – and local authorities, a comprehensive SWOT analysis was conducted. The analysis led to a strategic decision of initiating transformation of the cluster into Renewable Energy Community.
Ready to speed it up
Importantly, the goal of transforming the cluster into REC within the project is expected to:
· bring improved organizational capacity,
· strengthen the energy performance,
· better align with long-term climate goals.
During the specially held kick-off event held in the municipality of Bełżec, representatives of local government, institutions and businesses discussed an idea of improved energy performance as a business model that benefits the all. Crucially, eight local entities expressed their intent to jointly establish the Roztocze Energy Cooperative – a REC to be advanced in the coming months.
The initiating members of cooperative include:
· TermoSystemy Ltd. – TEC coordinator
· Municipality and town of Narol
· Municipality of Bełżec
· Parish of Our Lady Queen of Poland in Bełżec
· Energy Safety Agency
· Local SMEs: “Groszek” grocery store, BOSCH car service and Arkadia restaurant.
Ahead of the new mission
The planned transformation is going to be an important step toward strengthening local resilience and advancing energy independence in the region. With support of the HERCULES-CE project, the initiative will benefit from expert guidance, legal advice, and the project’s innovative tools designed to support REC development.
Next, Lubelskie Partner is to coordinate following steps and engagement activities with aim of conducting the facilitating process and eventually, ensuring a successful establishment and long-term sustainability of energy community. Stay updated on progress of the works!