Scaling support for citizen-led sustainable renovation projects
The EU initiative Citizen-Led Renovation (CLR) supports citizens in engaging with energy-efficient building renovation and implementing measures such as the installation of renewable energy technologies.
CLR Phase I focused on four pilot projects in Ireland, Portugal, Belgium, and Bulgaria, addressing barriers to energy-efficient residential renovations. In Phase II, the support service was expanded for selected pilot projects.
From early 2025 to late 2028, the project will enter Phase III—scaling, shifting focus from pilot initiatives to the creation of large-scale enabler structures.
Enhanced infrastructure and strengthened support network for collective action
Over the coming years, a network of ten organizations will be established to promote citizen-led renovations on a broad scale. These enablers will include energy agencies, one-stop shops for home renovations, energy communities, and various associations. Their support services will cover areas such as:
- Technical consultancy, financial advice, and project management
- Development of strategies, business models, and resource access
- Fostering dynamic local ecosystems where initiatives can thrive
- Capacity building through training, workshops, and ongoing support
- Knowledge sharing and dissemination of best practices across Europe
- Scaling and replicating successful local projects across different regions
The ultimate goal is to empower more citizens and communities to drive the transition toward energy-efficient and resilient buildings across Europe.
akaryon as project webmaster
The initiative is led by a consortium of local actors contributing to the sustainable energy transition in their respective regions. akaryon is part of this consortium and responsible for managing the website and digital platform. Coordinated by the Energy and Sustainable Development Agency (AESS, Italy), akaryon collaborates with the following partners:
- FEDARENE – European Federation of Agencies and Regions for Energy and Environment
- Energy Cities – A network of European cities committed to the energy transition
- REGEA – Regional Energy Agency of Northwest Croatia
- REScoop.eu – European Federation of Citizen Energy Cooperatives