The Transformative Potential of Local Energy Communities in Rural Environments 

These benefits highlight their ability to lead the energy and social transition in rural areas, according to a report by ICTA-UAB, based on the conclusions of a co-creation workshop held recently. The workshop aimed to promote collaboration networks and reflect on the transformative impact that Local Energy Communities have on rural areas. 

Rural areas face various socioeconomic and environmental challenges that increase their vulnerability. However, these regions also offer a unique space for implementing innovative initiatives that can provide sustainable solutions. In this context, LECs not only promote the transition to more sustainable energy systems but also foster community development and drive social transformation beyond their own initiatives. 

To integrate expert perspectives and encourage the exchange of ideas, the research groups “LIVENlab” and “Rural Collectives Lab” from the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (ICTA-UAB), in collaboration with the ECODES team and their project Energía Común, organized a co-creation workshop. 

The event, held at ICTA-UAB, brought together a research team and 19 individuals who are driving energy communities in rural areas across different regions. The goal was to build collaboration networks and reflect on the transformative potential of LECs in rural areas, as well as understand the diverse conditions influencing their development in Spain. 

The report resulting from the workshop highlights the positive effects of LECs in rural areas. These communities are facilitating cooperation between neighboring villages, public-private collaboration, and access to shared resources. Furthermore, some LECs promote women’s empowerment in rural areas, with several female-led initiatives generating cultural change within their communities. 

On the other hand, LECs have fostered the recovery of community values, the integration of diverse groups, and solidarity through initiatives such as microcredits and collaborations to combat energy poverty. They have also supported cultural activities, promoted energy literacy, and encouraged civic participation in rural communities. 

Economically, LECs have helped reduce electricity bills, stabilize prices, and finance community projects through the sale of surplus energy. At the same time, they have contributed to emission reductions and increased environmental awareness. 

Despite the progress made, the report highlights several challenges that still need to be addressed. Among these, the difficulty some projects face in securing a solid economic foundation stands out, putting their long-term sustainability at risk. Moreover, the lack of technical knowledge among the population continues to be a significant obstacle to the development of LECs. Additionally, the absence of succession in leadership is a concern, as it hampers the continuity of projects. 

Finally, the emergence of “false energy communities” — promoted by companies yet lacking genuine citizen participation and failing to meet the inclusive definition of LECs outlined in European directives — is also noted. Therefore, the positive impacts of these initiatives are limited. 

The workshop has been an important step in building a support ecosystem for LECs. With the right conditions in place, these initiatives not only empower rural communities but also position them as leaders in the future energy and ecosocial transition. 

 

Reference article:
Pérez-Sánchez, C., Ugarte Lucas, P., Sanjuan Agudelo, L., Villamayor-Tomas, S., & Madrid López, C. (2025). El potencial transformador de las comunidades energéticas en entornos rurales. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15018381