Verso una transizione energetica pulita: Ridurre le emissioni di gas a effetto serra e migliorare la qualità della vita di tutti

"<< Background >>We decided to apply for this project because we identified a strong need, in the territories involved, to raise awareness and strengthen citizens' skills regarding the energy transition and domestic energy saving.Despite European directives promoting the use of renewable energy and energy communities, there is often a lack of practical tools and accessible technical knowledge at the local level, especially among young people and in disadvantaged communities.The project had a strong local impact because it promoted a territorial and participatory approach to the energy transition, directly involving citizens, trainers, and youth.Through workshops, hands-on activities, and innovative educational tools, we promoted technical concepts and good practices in energy efficiency—contributing not only to greater environmental awareness but also to concrete changes in everyday behavior.The needs addressed by the project therefore include bridging the gap between European policies and local realities, fostering energy inclusion, and strengthening green skills as a driver for sustainable development.<< Objectives >>Operating within the context of the New European Bauhaus and the broader framework of the European Green Deal, the project aimed to accelerate the acquisition of so-called green skills through an intensive practical training program that brought together experts from the scientific and technological fields.Specifically, it achieved the following objectives:- To enhance knowledge to support the ecological transition and circular economy among partners, with the goal of fostering more inclusive and sustainable cities;- To share innovative and effective alternatives for access to self-production of renewable energy and for the use and consumption of domestic energy;- To promote active citizenship by encouraging dialogue with local institutions.Thanks to the project activities, it was possible to strengthen knowledge of renewable energy and the new tools to support the ecological transition, as well as to translate European policies into local actions.<< Implementation >>The main activities were structured as follows:Three transnational training modules were held for professionals in the green economy, architecture, and engineering sectors. Each module consisted of 12 hours, combining theoretical and practical sessions:""Energy Democracy"" (Breda, Netherlands – organized by EUpro): explored best practices in cohousing and citizens’ rights in accessing energy, promoting active energy citizenship;""Principles on Renewable Energy Communities"" (Iglesias, Italy – organized by Trevessu): examined how renewable energy communities work and the opportunities they offer;""Principles of Sustainable Energy Management"" (Saldus, Latvia – organized by MIHI): demonstrated the added value of digital innovation for the sustainable management of individual energy consumption.In parallel, three national workshops were organized—one in each partner country. These events involved citizens, educators, local authority representatives, and young people, creating opportunities for dialogue on the needs, challenges, and opportunities of the green transition in their respective local contexts. The workshops fostered interaction among different stakeholders and encouraged the launch of concrete initiatives.<< Results >>The results the project aims to achieve are:- 30 technicians/workers trained in solutions for the self-production of renewable energy;- 53 disadvantaged citizens involved in the workshops;- 3 active participating local associations;- increased awareness of energy consumption and clean energy;- strengthened dialogue between citizens and institutions;- local implementation of European policies on energy efficiency."