PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The participation and leadership of carbon-intensive regions in transitioning to clean energy solutions are prerequisites for achieving EU climate neutrality by 2050. Building on this premise, RePower the Regions brings to the fore pioneering just transition regions in central and eastern Europe (CEE), targeting them to accelerate the decarbonisation process. Building on our previous experience with LIFE funding, we will work to develop the first models for implementing inclusive and just local and regional clean energy plans. The RePower the Regions project will develop the skills and capacity of local authorities and actors to enable the achievement of Fit for 55 and REPowerEU objectives. Using participatory planning methods and with the support of the scientific community, we will create holistic plans and roadmaps for introducing solutions, such as energy saving, energy efficiency, local and community-led renewable energy initiatives and detailed plans for renewables-based heating and cooling solutions (including district heating). Through gaining strong local support and providing practical guidelines for the development of sustainable projects, we aim to collect quality green investment proposals and trigger financing for the regions through advocacy activities, supporting pilot projects and disseminating information on good solution. The project will be implemented in just transition regions in 9 countries: Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Ukraine. Our scope includes areas transitioning from coal (BG, CZ, HU, PL, RO, SK, UA), oil shale (EE) and peat (LV). The 16 regions were chosen due to their unique situation as pioneering areas for energy transformation in CEE. These are also areas where our Consortium members have done extensive work in recent years, creating a solid base for the planned activities.