European Commission launches EUR 1 million prize for Innovative Governance in Energy Communities

The European Commission has announced a EUR 1 million prize for Innovative Governance in Energy Communities. The prize aims to reward communities that are pioneering new ways of organising and governing their collective energy future.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation said:

"By rewarding the most innovative energy communities in Europe, this new prize aims to place European citizens at the heart of the energy transition."

The prize will be awarded to up to ten winners as follows:

• 1^st place: EUR 350 000
• 2^nd place: EUR 200 000
• 3^rd place: EUR 100 000
• 4^th place to 10^th place: EUR 50 000

The goal of this prize is to spotlight best practices that make community energy cleaner, fairer and more democratic. By showcasing governance models that strengthen trust, empower citizens, and accelerate the energy transition, the winners will act as European champions of citizen-led energy innovation. They will inspire others to build resilient, socially inclusive energy communities across the European Union.

Applications are open from 20 January to 25 June 2026 (final submission deadline to be confirmed) and must be sent through the Funding & Tenders Portal (link soon available).

Learn more about eligibility, application forms and overall objectives of the prize

Background

Across Europe, renewable energy communities are reshaping the way citizens produce, share, and govern clean energy. These communities bring together people, local authorities, and businesses to generate and manage renewable energy - such as solar, wind, or hydropower - within their own territories.

By collectively owning and operating energy assets, members share both the benefits and responsibilities of a more democratic energy system.

What began as grassroots initiatives in the 1980s has now evolved into a vital part of the EU's clean energy transition. With the Clean Energy for All Europeans Package (CEP) in 2019, the European Union formally recognised the right of citizens and communities to participate directly in the energy market. Today, thousands of energy communities across Europe involve nearly a million citizens.

Yet challenges remain: regulatory complexity, limited financing, and the need for governance models that are both efficient and inclusive. The social dimension - how communities make collective decisions, share benefits, and engage diverse stakeholders - is often the key factor that determines long-term success.

More information

Prize Governance Innovations in Energy Communities

Press contact:

EC Spokesperson for Research, Science and Innovation