The European Commission is launching the Citizen Energy Advisory Hub (CEAH), a new initiative designed to promote a bottom-up approach to the energy transition, enhance citizen participation and strengthen its social dimension across EU countries.

This 3-year project was established to help the EU achieve its climate and energy targets for 2030 and 2050. It also reflects elements of the Affordable Energy Action Plan, published in February, and anticipates the Citizens Energy Package, which should be published by the end of the year. 

Sept 25 Newsletter6

As Europe moves towards a more decentralised and decarbonised energy system, the Advisory Hub will serve as a key resource to help local communities, citizens, municipalities, NGOs and small businesses control their energy bills by consuming their own renewable energy and managing their energy demand.

By aiding progress towards more affordable energy, demand response, and improved energy efficiency and access to renewable energy across the EU, CEAH’s activities will accelerate the implementation of EU legislation. 

The Advisory Hub aims to nurture dialogue, boost citizen engagement in sustainable energy projects and build capacity for different stakeholders, including vulnerable households and those experiencing energy poverty. 

Supporting citizen energy initiatives

CEAH will launch a technical assistance programme to empower 120 citizen energy initiatives across the EU with the hands-on support they need to succeed. Energy communities will be able to apply to two calls for proposals, the first planned for the end of 2025 and the second in 2026.

The support programme offers four core types of support: 

  • Capacity-building support: to help beneficiaries design, launch, and professionalise citizen energy projects by offering guidance on energy-sharing, consumer protection, support schemes, and long-term skills development.
  • Investment and financial support: to provide tailored financial planning, early-stage investment guidance, fundraising strategies, and training to boost financial literacy and confidence.
  • Advisory support: to help with technical and technology design, regulatory frameworks, digital solutions, and communication strategies to ensure well-rounded project development.
  • Stakeholder engagement support: to support inclusive community involvement through citizen dialogues, behavioural insights, and targeted engagement of vulnerable or underrepresented groups. 

Other activities will include developing online resources and providing networking opportunities.

CEAH will work with other EU initiatives to carve out clear pathways for citizens and local actors to receive support, empowering them to contribute to and benefit from the clean energy transition.

Stay informed 

Sign up for the quarterly CEAH newsletter to receive information about project updates, citizen energy news and events, and access to expert guidance and tailored materials for energy citizens and other energy transition stakeholders. You can also sign up to join the Citizen Energy Network to dedicated networking events and opportunities to showcase your initiatives, activities, projects, or expertise.