NewsStory

EU awards €1 million to ten citizen-led energy communities

KROV newsroom

12 Nov 2026, 1:02 am IST1 min read

DiscussionThe story behind the news.

Illustrated homes with rooftop solar panels

The European Commission awarded a total of €1 million to ten citizen-led energy communities from six countries in Brussels on November 10. Its inaugural prize recognised how groups make decisions, distribute benefits and work with local authorities and businesses.

Spain’s Manza Energía received €350,000. The commission said the group shares solar electricity from a municipal sports hall with a public school, a sports centre and families, giving priority to households struggling to afford energy. Austria’s Robin Powerhood received €200,000 and channels surplus solar electricity to households facing similar difficulties. The commission plans to share lessons from the winners through workshops.

Cover image is an AI-generated editorial illustration.

Sources and credits

Credit: European Commission, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (European Union)

More context. A clearer perspective.

KROV · CONVERSATION

Comments

Share your perspective respectfully. Comments appear after review. Please do not share personal information.

Loading comments…

European Innovation Council outlines more than €1.8bn in 2027 funding opportunities

India and EU complete talks on Horizon Europe research funding access

EU General Court upholds refusal to renew approvals for three Kerry smoke flavourings

Nearly three in ten EU residents could not cover an unexpected expense in 2025

European Commission proposes new rules on online subscriptions and manipulative design