Energy Security for Sustainable Development : Exploring the Potential Contribution of Renewable Energy Communities in Sweden

Abstract: Ensuring affordable and clean energy is vital for sustainable development. The vulnerability of the European energy system has highlighted the need for resilient solutions. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs), essentially neighbors producing and sharing electricity, have emerged as promising components of a resilient energy system. Policymakers recognize the significance of grassroots initiatives like RECs in shaping the future energy landscape. However, the establishment of RECs is still relatively new, particularly in Sweden, generating increased interest within the academic community. Existing research primarily focuses on established RECs, necessitating a deeper understanding of their formation. To bridge this research gap, we conducted an exploratory and qualitative study to investigate homeowners’ motives and barriers for participating in RECs, as well as their expectations for external support. We developed an analytical framework based on the conceptualization of RECs as a distinct form of Community Enterprises. This framework enabled us to explore homeowners’ perspectives on the motivations and challenges associated with these entities. We collected primary data through 10 semi-structured interviews with homeowners residing in a neighborhood of a medium-sized town in southern Sweden. Our findings reveal that homeowners are primarily motivated by the economic impact of participating in RECs. However, they also perceive several barriers that hinder their involvement. These challenges stem from the absence of community determinants and characteristics, as well entrepreneurial spirit and leadership that promote the emergence of RECs. Homeowners generally hold a positive attitude towards RECs but express a preference for an intermediary who can initiate and facilitate their engagement. Intermediaries have the potential to establish RECs, as defined by EU law, by compensating for the lack of social capital and trust through formal control structures, while leveraging external expertise as champions and organizers. This concept challenges the notion of RECs as a specific type of Community Enterprises.