ACCTING Case Study: Denmark’s First Citizen-Led Energy Community

Oct 21, 2024Case studies, Clean Energy, Denmark

ACCTING aims to understand how Green Deal policies impact vulnerable groups to help prevent the worsening of inequalities in the green transition. Now in its second cycle, the project has selected case studies that explore real-world initiatives addressing the involvement of vulnerable communities in sustainability initiatives

Solhuset: Paving the way for citizen-led energy communities

Solhuset, located in Avedøre near Copenhagen, Denmark, serves as an inspiring example of how a consumer-owned utility company, Avedøre District Heating A.M.B.A, and low-income residents of social housing can work together to achieve lasting environmental change. Thanks to the collaboration between Avedøre District Heating A.M.B.A and the residents, this social housing project has transformed into Denmark’s first citizen-led energy community, with the establishment of the Energy Community Avedøre A.M.B.A in August 2020. The founders include Hvidovre Municipality, Hvidovre Gymnasium, Avedøre Landsbylaug, Avedøre District Heating A.M.B.A., Filmbyen, and EBO Consult.

Pictures: © Pariman Boostani [used with permission]

From “Store Hus” to “Solhuset”

Formerly known as “Store Hus” (Large House), the building was renamed “Solhuset” (Sun House) to accompany the efforts to make the building energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable. This transition was led by Steen Jørgensen, the former Vice-chairman of Avedøre District Heating, in partnership with the district heating company’s administrator EBO Consult. As part of this transformation, 60 solar panels were installed on the roof, along with 160 polycrystalline solar panels on the south facade of the building. These solar panels generate enough energy to supply 75-100% of the hot water needs for the building’s 454 apartments from April to September. In addition to hot water generation, the solar panels produce around 21,000 kWh of electricity per year, thus reduce the building’s dependence on traditional power grids and further contributing to the building’s sustainability goals. This green energy initiative is not only reducing carbon emissions but also helping low-income tenants cut down on their utility bills.

Creating ownership and community

One of the most notable aspects of Solhuset is the active participation of its residents. The residents are not just mere beneficiaries of the energy project, they are actively involved in decision-making. Through representation on the building’s board, they have the right to vote on every decision that affects their community. This level of involvement has created a strong sense of ownership and community, allowing residents to have a direct say in the future of their living environment. This engagement ensures that the solutions implemented are tailored to the real needs of the people who live there, making the project both effective and inclusive.

Picture: © EBO Consult [used with permission]

A symbol of both sustainable living and community empowerment, the Solhuset project also hosts workshops that teach residents about sustainable living practices, encouraging long-term behavioural change and a deeper understanding of sustainability. The success of Solhuset, Denmark’s first citizen-led energy community, shows what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for sustainability. The project’s emphasis on local, sustainable energy and community participation offers valuable lessons for other housing developments and municipalities looking to reduce energy poverty and create environmentally sustainable communities.