In the picturesque village of Monchio delle Corti in the italian Parma province, nestled within the pristine landscapes of the Parco regionale dei Cento Laghi and the Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Tosco-Emiliano, a transformative initiative is taking shape followed and supported by the Italian Advisory Board of ALFA project.: Mr. Luca Zambelli. The initiative is a Renewable Energy Community (REC). But what exactly is a REC?

A REC is a legal entity with a defined statute, comprising at least two members who are producers and/or consumers of renewable energy. The primary goal is to generate economic, environmental, and social benefits through the production and self-consumption of clean energy. Introduced under the European Directive 2018/2001 RED 2 and implemented in Italy through D.Lgs. 199/2021, (in italian: Comunitá Energetiche Rinnovabili, CER) enables the shared use of renewable energy via existing distribution networks.

In Monchio delle Corti, the implementation of RECs presents a unique opportunity for its 830 residents residing at an altitude of 820 meters. This area, rich in biodiversity and part of the UNESCO MaB Reserve, is not only a natural haven but also faces challenges such as depopulation.

The ALFA Italian HUB has highlighted several benefits that could be particularly valuable for this province in establishing a REC. It could play a transformative role across environmental, economic, and social fronts, helping to drive sustainable development within the community.

Environmental and Energy Advantages: Establishing a REC would enable the province to produce and share 100% renewable energy locally, reducing dependency on non-renewable sources and substantially cutting CO2 emissions, especially important for agriculture. The REC could also contribute to improving the efficiency of the electrical grid, while providing a more energy-efficient infrastructure for residents.

Economic Benefits: The adoption of a REC in Monchio della Corte would provide a range of financial advantages for the community. By generating renewable energy locally, residents could save on energy costs. Additionally, under Italian law, municipalities with populations of up to 5,000 inhabitants are eligible for a capital contribution of up to 40% towards installation costs, making renewable energy solutions more accessible. Furthermore, any surplus energy generated can be fed back into the grid, creating a source of revenue that could support the REC’s long-term sustainability.

Social Impacts: Beyond environmental and economic benefits, a REC can have profound social implications. It can help alleviate energy poverty by reducing energy costs for residents, foster stronger community bonds, and generate new local job opportunities tied to the installation and maintenance of renewable energy infrastructure.

The residents would have the flexibility to join as either Prosumers or Consumers of a REC. Prosumers would produce renewable energy (e.g., solar, biogas) for self-consumption and share surplus energy with other members. Consumers would benefit from accessing shared renewable energy during peak production hours, contributing to their energy savings. For instance, by installing solar panels on rooftops, prosumers would not only contribute to the communal energy pool but also enjoy financial benefits such as reduced installation costs and potential earnings from surplus energy sales. On the other hand, Consumers benefit from lower energy bills, supported by the social aspects of REC participation.

In conclusion, the introduction of RECs in Monchio delle Corti represents more than just an energy initiative; it's a sustainable development strategy aimed at revitalizing the local economy of the province, preserving natural heritage, and fostering community solidarity. By embracing renewable energy and empowering local residents, Monchio delle Corti municipality would pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the charming Italian Apennine village.

Do you know other communities in your region that are becoming a REC ?