Czechia

Specific allocation for energy communities

The programme KOMUENERG mentions energy communities as separate targets (2.8 % of the total allocation). Energy communities can also participate in HEAT and RES+.

Definition of energy communities in line with EU legislation

A new energy act will be set into law within 2024 in Czechia, which introduces the concept of energy communities, and is well aligned with EU definitions.

In the case of renewable energy communities the requirement to hold a license is relevant only if such obligation arises from the legislation currently in force. Community projects must also meet
the conditions and requirements arising from Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources, namely the requirements under Art. 22.

The document states that "The owner or investor of the project is the local energy community that implements the measures primarily for the purpose of satisfying their energy needs. The communities then become simultaneously producers and consumers of energy."

Proportionality of share of total fund allocated to energy communities

2.8 % of the Modernisation Fund is dedicated to energy communities even though municipalities can apply in other subprogrammes.

Availability of tailored financing tools

There are no different financing tools available that fit different situations. Grants mainly and some guarantees.

Link between energy communities, building renovation and energy efficiency

There is a link with building renovation.

"Together with the support provided for the installation of photovoltaic power plants, the following can be further supported:
- Battery storage systems of electricity produced.
- Forced investments in the renovation of roof structures on which PVPP will be installed and in the modernization of electrical installations in buildings with newly installed PVPP.
- Implementation of energy management including control software and measuring and control elements to optimize energy production and consumption, project preparation and professional technical and author supervision and OSH."

Recognition of energy communities under multiple objectives

Energy communities are not yet recognised under multiple objectives. Maybe at some point this will happen because the programme is still not finished. Community Energy Union is pushing for including these objectives there especially energy poverty.

Holistic strategy to provide financing across different levels of project development

No holistic approach (at least not yet).

Transparency of the design and communication of the schemes and measures

Community Energy Union was included in the calls for municipalities but that's it. Maybe later on they will be included in the consultations.

Selection criteria and the prioritisation of various social components

The clear social component in the HOUSEENERG programme which is focused on households/apartment buildings and supports also small scale renovations for elderly, disabled people etc.

Decentralised tender process

There is a centralized process to create tenders.

Existence of procedures to facilitate the participation of energy communities in open calls

There are no procedures to facilitate the participation of energy communities in open calls. The Modernisation Fund does not support soft measures such as capacity building, workshops etc.

Stability and predictability of the programme through time

Calls for municipalities can be assessed as predictable and stable.