One of the key objectives of the ConnectHeat projects is to increase expertise and know-how on feasibility and sustainability of community energy initiatives of both key local stakeholders and the consortium partners (trainers) themselves.
To build capacity of the consortium partners, ConnectHeat has organised a holistic series of five online “Train the Trainers” workshops covering key enabling factors, knowledge, best practices and inspiring initiatives around various topics to facilitate the roll-out of community energy projects. The five sessions gathered several inspiring external speakers and proposed insightul presentations and fruitful discussions around heating and cooling communities.
The sessions were recorded, and both the presentations and the recordings are made openly available at our project website. Find below the list of the sessions as well as links where you can find more information about each session but also view the recording and download the presentations.
ConnectHeat Train the Trainers online workshops
1. Community and stakeholder engagement
19 September 2023
This session examines and promotes effective strategies for decarbonising H&C systems through active engagement with local communities and stakeholders. It aims to provide insights into engaging communities in the transition to sustainable energy practices, sharing experiences and best practices, and discussing the technical support required for energy communities. Additionally, the session addresses planning considerations for establishing energy communities, including identifying optimal locations and developing effective planning approaches.
2. Technological framework
First part on 23 October 2023 | Second part on 30 November 2023
The first part represents an opportunity to analyse and discuss various technologies that contributed to decarbonizing H&C systems, with a focus on biomass and solar energy solutions for heating and cooling systems. The second session focuses on heat pump devices. Both sessions provide insights and knowledge about different technological solutions and their integration into community energy solutions. The sessions delve into the functionality, benefits, and potential applications of these technologies, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in achieving sustainable and efficient H&C solutions.
3. Legal and organisational framework
22 November 2023
This session delves into the legal and organisational aspects of setting up and managing energy communities and energy efficiency services. The session aims to provide an insight into the process of setting up and operating community energy solutions and the transfer of knowledge gained from pilot projects across Europe.
It focuses on the European Union’s definition of energy communities and the implementation of related policies at national level, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of different models and approaches. It also addresses the legal and organisational considerations surrounding heat pumps and DHC systems, including relevant regulations, incentives and potential challenges to their implementation.
4. Financial tools and business models
11 December 2023
This session aims to explore various financial tools and business models that can facilitate the transition to sustainable H&C systems. It showcases the use of crowdfunding as a novel financial tool for DHC projects, highlighting its benefits and potential for replication. It delves into alternative financing schemes and corresponding innovative policies on financing the energy transition. Investment concepts for financing schemes in implementing sustainable energy projects are also highlighted. The session seeks to provide valuable insights into the financial aspects of the energy transition, fostering discussions on innovative business models and financial tools driving the adoption of sustainable energy solutions.
5. Non-financial cost/benefit analysis
21 December 2023
The purpose of this session is to examine, evaluate, and highlight the broader impacts and considerations associated with decarbonizing H&C systems beyond financial aspects. It aims to explore the socioeconomic benefits that arise from implementing sustainable H&C solutions, discussing topics such as community well-being. It also addressed the pros and cons of different models and approaches used in the transition to decarbonized systems, considering factors such as potential challenges. Additionally, the session focuses on the environmental and health implications of these systems, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices for the well-being of both individuals and the environment.
