The main objectives of this project are to review and develop a better understanding of the policies, mechanisms and strategies which have led to improvements in the integration of renewable energy sources (RES), the rational use of energy (RUE) and the use of clean energy for transport (CET) in European Union Member States and the New Accession States. Independent and up to date documentation on those policies and actions related to sustainable energy communities will then be produced.
The aim of the project is to develop an understanding of how different local authorities have initiated frameworks and developed policies to promote clean energy in light of:
- the growing emphasis on decentralisation of government across the European Union (EU) and the New Accession States (NAS)
- the increasing importance of drivers such as Local Agenda 21
- energy sector liberalisation and renewable energy obligations
The project will review and develop a better understanding of the policies, mechanisms and strategies used in the EU Member States and NAS, which in turn will lead to improvements in the integration of Renewable Energy Resources (RES), Rational Use of Energy (RUE) and Clean Energy for Transport (CET) and consequently to sustainable development.
Another aspect of the project is to identify the factors that are critical to the success of developing clean energy and the results of the project will form the basis of recommendations on best practice for use by local authorities, national governments and European Commission programmes.
