Clean energy projects on Europe’s islands

The Aran Islands are an inspiring example of how the clean energy transition can strengthen a local community, and foster inter-island collaboration within a region. Their majestic cliffs, Celtic medieval churches and lush green fields are home to a tradition-rich culture ready to future-proof its community.

Pressure due to a growing number of residents and visitors in the archipelago pushed Cres-Lošinj to think about innovative solutions for its energy supply.

Aware of the clean energy opportunities on Culatra, the local community decided to take their future into their own hands. Partnering with the University of Algarve, the Culatra Island Residents Association is planning to design a roadmap and implement a clean energy transition framework on the island.

La Palma has tremendous renewable energy potential, but had disregarded this resource until, in 2014, a group of citizens and municipalities decided it was time to embark on a different path.

With its three cities Santa Marina, Malfa and Leni - home to around 2,500 inhabitants spread across 26km2 - Salina is the second largest island in the Aeolian island archipelago North of Sicily. Labeled “the greenest of the Aeolian islands”, Salina in 2013 decided to give honour to its name and start its clean energy transition.

In an effort to make Sifnos self-sufficient and powered by 100% renewable energy, a local group of citizens decided to organize and engage their fellow islanders in the transition.