Citizens embrace energy projects: European Energy Communities Facility surpasses expectations

The first call for proposals launched by the European Energy Communities Facility (EECF) , supported by the LIFE Programme, has produced an overwhelming response, with 690 applications received from 31 countries, far exceeding the expectations of the consortium managing the initiative. This level of engagement underscores the pressing demand for funding to support energy communities in their early development stages.

Applications came in from all eligible countries, including the 27 EU Member States, Iceland, Moldova, North Macedonia, and Ukraine. Austria led the pack with 116 submissions, followed by Italy with 95, and the Netherlands with 87. The applicants presented a rich diversity of energy technologies; while solar projects featured prominently-as anticipated for early-stage energy communities-over 400 proposals included plans for energy efficiency, and a substantial share included mobility, heating and cooling, wind or storage investments.

Approximately 70 initiatives will be selected to receive a €45,000 grant each to develop comprehensive business plans for their community energy projects. The final list of beneficiaries is expected by 22 December 2025.

The funding targets not just financial support but also capacity-building, including expert guidance and peer exchanges, to help communities design technically viable, financially sustainable, and socially inclusive energy projects.

The initiatives funded by the Facility are anticipated to mobilize millions of euros in citizen investment, demonstrating the effectiveness of early-stage grants in leveraging private capital and advancing democratic, community-driven energy solutions.

This surge in citizen engagement signals remarkable momentum in Europe's clean energy transition, with communities eager to take ownership of sustainable energy systems and contribute to a greener future.

A second call for proposals will open between May and June 2026, offering a new opportunity for energy communities to receive early-stage support.