Every1 believes that everyone has a role to play in the digital energy transition. By attending local events and meeting our ecosystem partners in person, we strengthen international cooperation, share knowledge, and support communities in building sustainable energy solutions. Our participation in the CIRCUS Kick-Off Event, held from November 20th to 22nd in Lochem, Netherlands, reflects this commitment to collaboration and empowerment. Hosted by LochemEnergie, the event marked the beginning of a three-year initiative to foster robust renewable energy communities across Europe.
A Strong Foundation for Collaboration
The CIRCUS Project, which runs from 2024 to 2027, builds on the successful legacy of the ECCO Interreg project - which also focused on creating new local Energy Community Co-Operatives. CIRCUS will promote renewable energy by supporting 30 emerging energy communities across France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Ireland. With a focus on inclusivity, communities are identified based on their level of maturity—ensuring tailored tools and guidance for each.
Key Tools for Energy Communities
Over the first two days, project partners unveiled and discussed four innovative tools designed to empower rural stakeholders:
- Electricity Profile Tool for Farmers – Helps rural communities optimise energy use.
- GIS Tool – Maps suitable land for photovoltaic systems (PV), fostering dialogue between nature conservationists, farmers, and citizens.
- Business Model Canvas – Guides communities in selecting the legal and organisational structures best suited to their goals.
- Participation Methodology – Offers three workbooks for stakeholder engagement, communication strategies, and multi-level technical expertise.
These tools reflect CIRCUS’ commitment to creating lasting solutions by addressing both technical and community needs.
Presentations That Inspired
During the event, we also heard from:
- The Municipality of Lochem, which showcased its efforts to support sustainable energy initiatives, such as community-driven projects and investments in local technologies.
- Local4Local and the development of Energyboxx, a Digital Software Tool developed as part of the Local4Local concept, designed to optimise energy systems at the community level.
- Agem Energie Experts, who shared their experience in supporting local energy communities in the development of sustainable production assets, offering valuable insights into scaling renewable solutions.
These presentations highlighted the practical tools and expertise available to foster energy resilience and self-sufficiency in rural areas.
Every1 Presentation and Future Collaboration
As part of the event, Every1 delivered a 15-minute presentation showcasing our approach to enabling engagement in the digital energy transition. We explored how our work aligns with CIRCUS' goals, emphasising collaboration to empower citizens and build robust, sustainable energy ecosystems.
Insights from Lochem and Almen
Participants were also inspired by local initiatives in Lochem, such as its successful car-sharing platform and significant investments in sustainable technologies like heat pumps. A visit to Almen, a village of just over 1,200 residents and one of the newest villages involved in Local4Local, showcased ongoing community-driven projects. Plans for an Energy Cooperative are well underway, supported by workshops, legal discussions, and active engagement with residents.
Looking Ahead
The CIRCUS project’s holistic methodology—supported by tools, training programs, and capacity-building events—sets a clear path for advancing energy communities across Europe. Every1 is eager to contribute our expertise to this journey and further our shared mission of empowering citizens in the energy transition.
