Bürgerenergie MOE: Nostra Nova Domus – Forging more effective partnership and capacity building for efficient use and management of solar energy
Projektdurchführung
Solare Zukunft e. V.
Wiesentalstr. 50
79115 Freiburg
Zielsetzung und Anlass des Vorhabens
Macedonia faces significant challenges in its democratic processes and economic development, directly impacting its citizens. The centralized energy sector remains resistant to change and largely disconnected from civil society and citizens, ignoring pressing issues like rising energy poverty. This has led to mistrust, hindered innovation, and perpetuated energy sector inefficiencies.
The escalation of energy prices has further exacerbated energy poverty for citizens and businesses. In response, Macedonian authorities declared an "energy crisis" due to low domestic production, costly imports, and delays in transitioning from coal to renewable energy. While energy cooperatives are a promising solution, Macedonia lacks legislation to support them, and none currently exist.
Growing demand for solar power plants (SPPs) and solar equipment has increased pressure on municipalities to streamline permitting processes. This project addresses these challenges by promoting solar energy through capacity-building initiatives, pilot projects, and stakeholder collaboration. In a country burdened by pollution and poor air quality, these efforts also contribute to environmental protection.
Darstellung der Arbeitsschritte und der angewandten MethodenThe project centered on promoting solar energy use through training, installations, and stakeholder collaboration. Key activities included:
1. Capacity Building:
Five training sessions (25 participants each) addressed solar energy, energy cooperatives, and permitting procedures. Municipal councillors, civil society, and media representatives participated.
Two workshops, co-hosted with German partner Solare Zukunft e.V., shared insights on energy cooperatives and renewable energy.
2. Solar Power Plant Installation:
A photovoltaic (PV) power plant was installed on CDI premises, serving as a practical training tool and sustainable energy source.
3. Resource and Training Center:
CDI established a solar energy resource center for training, knowledge exchange, and awareness-raising.
4. On-Site Training:
Practical training on PV system installation and maintenance was provided to three groups of 15 participants each.
5. Exchange Trip to Germany:
Four participants joined a two-day study visit organized by Solare Zukunft e.V., visiting energy cooperatives and renewable energy institutions.
6. Pilot Projects:
Four pilot projects received 10,000 each, co-funded by CDI/DBU and cooperative members, based on geographic and demographic criteria.
7. Final Conference:
A conference presented project outcomes to policymakers, media, and stakeholders.
8. Communication Plan:
CDI utilized social media, printed media, and video content for outreach, with additional promotion via Solare Zukunft e.V.s website.
Ergebnisse und Diskussion
The project effectively achieved its objectives. CDIs capacity-building activities enhanced participants understanding of energy cooperatives, legal frameworks, and PV systems. Delays in activity initiation were mitigated by adding a mentoring component for grantees, simplifying cooperative formation and streamlining project implementation.
Adaptations were minimal, as participants received comprehensive guidance on establishing cooperatives and accessing financial support. The project demonstrated the potential for photovoltaics to reduce costs and improve environmental conditions, benefiting citizens and businesses.
Öffentlichkeitsarbeit und Präsentation
CDI promoted the project through its website, Facebook page, and an additional page, Energy Cooperatives - Macedonia, which shares project updates and news on renewable energy. National and local media amplified these efforts, alongside promotion by Solare Zukunft e.V. on its website.
Relevant links:
Energy Cooperatives Macedonia (
https://www.facebook.com/energycoop.macedonia)
Solare Zukunft Projects (
https://www.solarezukunft.org/projekte/entwicklungszusammenarbeit/)
Fazit
The project effectively promoted solar energy and energy cooperatives, demonstrating the potential of PV systems to reduce costs and improve environmental conditions. CDI successfully engaged stakeholders, municipalities, and civil society through workshops, training, and pilot projects, equipping them with knowledge to accelerate renewable energy adoption.
A supportive legal framework is essential for expanding Macedonias renewable energy sector, alongside continued capacity-building for planners, installers, and citizens. By fostering awareness and collaboration, this initiative laid the groundwork for sustainable energy development at local and national levels.