04/12/2025

The Climate and Energy Model Region (KEM) Inn-Kobernaußerwald hosted its quarterly Energy Community Forum (EG-Forum) beginning of December 2025, bringing together founders and members of renewable energy communities as well as individuals interested in joining or learning more about them. 

The event was organized in cooperation with the Austrian Energy Agency and focused on communication within and about renewable energy communities (RECs) — marking the first time the forum addressed a non-technical topic.

While previous forums typically attracted between 20 and 60 participants, this workshop saw lower attendance both in person and online, reflecting the generally lower interest in non-technical topics. However, the smaller group enabled an intensive and highly productive exchange. The workshop format was adapted spontaneously from planned group work to an open discussion format, allowing participants to collaboratively develop practical outcomes.

The session began with an overview of communication materials developed within the SHAREs project (www.energie-teilen.at). 

Discussions then focused on two key areas: external communication — such as attracting new members and building public acceptance — and internal communication within energy communities.

Participants identified several barriers to external communication, including limited resources, lack of tailored communication tools, and trust-related challenges. Many potential members hesitate due to existing energy contracts, perceived financial risks, or limited expected savings for smaller households. At the same time, success stories highlighted the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations, support from local municipalities, and personal trust, particularly through community leaders such as mayors. 

Internal communication discussions emphasized the need to strengthen member engagement and align energy consumption behavior with price signals. Participants highlighted the importance of transparent information sharing, regular updates, and tools that help members monitor energy production and usage. Establishing clear communication responsibilities — ideally through dedicated individuals or teams — was also identified as critical. 

Informal formats such as regular community meet-ups were seen as effective for strengthening trust and participation.

Overall, the forum demonstrated that while communication remains a challenge for energy communities, targeted strategies, strong local networks, and clear, accessible information can significantly improve both member engagement and community growth.

Energy Community Forum: https://mitten-im-innviertel.at/projekte/eeg-gruenderinnen-forum/ 

Presentation in German: https://mitten-im-innviertel.at/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/8.-EEG-Forum.pdf