The European Commission has launched a call for expressions of interest to select up to ten “lighthouse projects” aimed at supporting the energy transition in the Western Balkans through the development of Renewable Energy Communities.
The initiative is part of the action “Better Cohesion through Development of Energy Communities in the Western Balkans”, funded by the Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy under the EU Cohesion Policy. It targets Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, with a maximum of two projects selected per country.
The programme supports pilot projects aligned with the EU’s Macro-Regional Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region and seeks to promote a just energy transition. Each selected project will receive tailored technical assistance and financial support to establish or strengthen local renewable energy communities.
Projects will be developed in two phases: the first will focus on community mobilisation and legal establishment, while the second will offer capacity building and, where possible, light infrastructure investments such as photovoltaic systems and smart metering.
The selection process will follow a step-by-step, inclusive approach to accommodate applicants at varying stages of preparedness. A two-round evaluation will ensure wide participation and geographic balance.
Organisers say the initiative aims to foster cooperative energy solutions, alleviate energy poverty, and strengthen local ownership in the green transition.
The programme underscores the value of European Territorial Cooperation and the EU’s ongoing support for sustainable, community-led energy models across the region.