The fifth Local Renewables Conference will take place in Freiburg (Germany) from 25-26 October and focuses on the combination of locally generated renewable energy, smart grids and smart end-users. The connection and need for close cooperation between cities and regions is essential in this context. Becoming a low carbon and a 100 percent renewable community is challenging, but possible.

Representatives from cities and towns, decision-makers from various levels of government, energy service providers and energy experts will present and discuss ways in which smart grids and solutions can be shaped – with urban-regional links seen as a core element in this. How can we ensure stable grids with stable energy provision in the energy transition towards renewable? What role does local government play in this? And where should key actors connect and cooperate to make it work?

Following a Symposium on 24 October 2012, which will celebrate the 20-year collaboration between the City of Freiburg and the ICLEI European Secretariat, Local Renewables 2012 will explore these fascinating concepts, aiming to identify critical elements needed to roll out smart grids in European cities and towns.

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