Renewable Energy Communities in the Energy Transition Context

Abstract

Economic, social, and environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important in territorialdevelopment policies in Europe and internationally. Among the sustainable development goals, the theme ofthe energy transition is particularly important, which translates not only into a move away from energyfrom fossil fuels in favor of renewable ones but also into an improvement in energy efficiency linked toenergy production and greater awareness of energy consumption by citizens. To achieve a paradigm ofsustainable development, combating the problem of resource scarcity and biodiversity loss, as well as theunsustainability of today's consumption and production systems, the Renewable Energy Communities (CER)can be a suitable model to support urban space redevelopment projects. Actions that aim to recover the pre-existing building heritage to give new life to abandoned areas are increasingly necessary for the protection ofthe environment. This encourages the propensity to act responsibly, promoting virtuous circles for theterritories and communities of reference. This work aims to analyze and understand the actual developmentof the eco-friendly model of Energy Communities, understanding its real benefits. In particular, the casestudy of the Energy Community of East Naples is reported which, through the involvement of citizens andbusinesses of the territory, can produce, consume and exchange energy with a view to self-consumption andcollaboration.