A successful energy transition requires not only the use of renewable energies, but the reduction of primary energy consumption. In some cases, the research on actions to promote energy efficient behaviour is lacking, or the actions are considered too difficult to implement. This is where energy cooperatives come in, as they can expand their activities to promote energy sufficiency. They are established players in the energy transition and contribute to natural, climate-friendly energy production and – through broad participation – greater acceptance of the energy transition. By being close to their members, energy cooperatives can reach consumers directly and educate and engage them in the issues of absolute reductions in energy consumption.
The project “Energy Cooperatives as Multipliers for Energy Sufficiency” examines the contribution energy cooperatives can make to promoting energy sufficiency among consumers in private households.
Under the management of adelphi, the project team – together with the Institute for Ecological Economic Research – helps energy cooperatives develop and implement communication strategies related to energy sufficiency. The aim of the project is to analyse the instruments used by energy cooperatives to promote sufficiency (such as incentive systems and communication measures) and examine their effectiveness. Our partner Energie vor Ort GmbH (a subsidiary of the Heidelberger Energiegenossenschaft) has been involved in the project from the start and provides a direct link to relevant target groups.
