Brac, Hvar and Korcula with their own clean energy transition strategies

The aim is to take a significant step towards decarbonizing their energy systems with a strong focus on citizen engagement

Earlier in November, 6 European islands announced their clean energy transition strategies. Their aim is to take a significant step towards decarbonizing their energy systems with a strong focus on citizen engagement.       

The key points of the strategies have been presented during the 4th Island Clean Energy Forum for the EU Islands, held in Split and Hvar, where EU island community stakeholders meet from 20 to 22 November 2019.         

The six EU islands are the Cres-Lošinj Archipelago (Croatia), the Aran Islands (Ireland), Salina (Italy), Sifnos (Greece), Culatra (Portugal) and La Palma (Spain).

During almost one year, the island communities actively developed their Clean Energy Transition Strategies with a strong emphasis on the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders and putting citizens at the centre of the transition.

Main aims of the strategies for transition to clean energy:       

• The Cres-Lošinj archipelago wants completely to decarbonize its energy system by 2040. This aim will be partially achieved by using local community-owned solar power plants.
• The Aran Islands plans to install community-owned wind farms, remodel homes and install renewable energy sources for domestic hot water and heating.
• Salina wants to increase public awareness of energy and environmental issues. The island plans to decarbonize its power generation plants with 100% electrical or hybrid mobility, to increase the energy efficiency of buildings, and to decarbonize its maritime traffic.     
• Sifnos aims to become 100% renewable and self-sufficient and has developed different ways to achieve this goal. All plants will be owned in partnership with the local community and private investors.   
• Culatra's goal is to have 100% of local renewable energy sources be owned by the local community.
• La Palma wants to achieve full decarbonization and self-sufficiency in the energy sector by focusing on building a strong island energy system and actively including more than 100 local associations committed to supporting the transition of the island.