The growing interest in Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) is closely linked to the gradual structuring of the process, facilitated by the transitional phase of the relevant regulations. This phase allowed the beginning of experimental initiatives on a small scale at the national level, outlining RECs as legal entities where a significant variety of actors collaborate to produce, consume, and share electrical energy from renewable sources within defined geographical boundaries.

The sociotechnical complexity associated with the definition of RECs call for the creation of social networks of actors, especially when collective benefits take precedence over individual profit. The emphasis on the importance of collective benefits highlights the need to define and measure the impact of initiatives on the territorial and social context involved.

To this end, a methodology for social impact assessment based on a realistic approach is being developed, aiming to appreciate the complexity of RECs. The methodology identifies a close correlation between the Context (C) and Mechanisms (M) adopted in the process, contributing to defining a series of possible outcomes (OUTCOME).

These outcomes can be modified based on interactions among the involved actors and the underlying interests in the project action. The methodology will be tested in the field the following year, using selected case studies. Simultaneously, a data collection and research methodology has been defined to build a database mapping RECs initiative resulting from Legislative Decree 199, in the design phase.

Currently, 253 RECs are included in the database, covering six regions, and feeding into a prototype of an “interactive map” built in WebGIS. An initial analysis reveals that photovoltaics are the predominant Renewable Energy Technology, with a significant increase in power due to the rise in incentivize sizes as outlined in Legislative Decree 199/21.

Municipalities and public administrations remain the primary promoters, while regions and intermediary entities play a significant role in financing and defining the objectives of RECs.

The Report is available on the Italian site