Citizen-led energy innovation: apply to the Renewable Energy Community Prize
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
- Resilient rural areas
- Energy
- Climate
- Nature and environment
The European Commission is looking to reward energy communities that have developed creative, inclusive and effective governance models. Apply to the Renewable Energy Community Prize between 20 January and 25 June 2026.
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The prize will recognise ten best practices and innovative approaches in citizen-led energy innovation, which ensure fair participation, transparency and collaboration. These may include new participatory decision-making processes, equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms, or innovative collaborations between citizens, local authorities, and local enterprises.
The total prize budget is EUR 1 million to be awarded to up to ten winners, ranging from EUR 50 000 to EUR 350 000.
Applications are open to energy communities with up to 10 000 members. Eligible applicants include any legal entity falling under the EU definitions of a ‘Renewable Energy Community’ or a ‘Citizens Energy Community’, such as associations, cooperatives, partnerships, non-profit organisations or limited liability companies.
Energy communities are invited to apply via the Funding and Tenders portal by 25 June – the application link will be made available on the prize web page as of 20 January.
Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on energy and join the dedicated Community Group to connect and exchange with peers.