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

Bergen Ecovillage: Pioneering sustainable living in Norway

Picture: © Bergen Økologiske Landsby [used with permission]

Bergen Økologiske Landsby (BØL) is an ecovillage located in Osterøy, Norway. Still in the early stages of development, this project aims to combine ecological practices with community values to create a model for sustainable businesses and lifestyles. From eco-friendly housing to green energy solutions, the village is designed to nurture both the environment and its residents.

Planning for an eco-friendly life

Bergen Ecovillage plans to build 39 homes, including detached houses, terraced homes, dormitories, and communal spaces. These houses will be made from environmentally friendly and local materials, such as wood and wood-based materials. These low-energy homes will include modern technologies such as solar panels and natural ventilation to drastically reduce energy consumption.

The energy solution aims to achieve a high degree of local self-sufficiency through local water supply and reuse, solar electricity supply, rocket mass heating, and food forestry. Combining electricity, solar panels and firewood ensures the village can meet its needs even during colder months. Roof-mounted flat solar collectors, which perform well in fair weather, will be supplemented by vacuum tube solar collectors that are efficient in cloudy and cold conditions. This combination allows for sustainable energy production year-round.

A community-driven project

The eco-village stands out by focusing not only on sustainability but also on active community participation. The two project leaders have been successful in engaging the wider community. By holding meetings and social gatherings, they have encouraged volunteers and future residents to actively participate in shaping the village’s future.

The village is intended to become a place for people from all walks of life, particularly those from low-income backgrounds who might otherwise struggle to build their own homes, as well as women and older individuals.

Envisioning a sustainable future

More than just a residential project, Bergen Ecovillage aims to evolve into a hub for local, sustainable businesses such as eco-tourism and food production. The community promotes permaculture, a method of sustainable agriculture, and offers courses to help residents and visitors learn how to grow local food. Additionally, car-sharing is encouraged to reduce the environmental impact of transportation within the village.

As the project continues to grow, the community is actively working on securing funding from ENOVA and other public and private institutions to make the vision a reality. In fall 2024, the project plans to establish a developing company, in cooperation with Ledaal Eiendom AS, to handle the building of the houses in 2025. A campaign will be launched to reach new members and a variety of social gatherings will be offered to new and existing members of the community.

Bergen Ecovillage is working towards creating a thriving community based on the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and cooperation. With its innovative energy solutions, commitment to community engagement, and focus on creating local businesses, the village is set to become a leading example of how sustainable living can be accessible to everyone.

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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

Sofienberggata 7: A model for energy-efficient renovation in Oslo, Norway

Sofienberggata 7, located in the heart of Oslo’s Grünerløkka district, is a municipally-owned building composed of 164 flats whose tenants are from vulnerable groups. Many residents face challenges such as low income, old age, disability, or being from ethnic minority backgrounds.

A much-needed energy overhaul

Built in 1979, the building was recently renovated to significantly reduce energy consumption while enhancing the quality of life for its tenants. The goal was to cut energy usage by over 70% to reduce the high energy bills that were weighing heavily on the low-income and vulnerable residents. The large-scale rehabilitation included the following key energy upgrades:

• Highly insulated facades
• An updated ventilation system
• Thermal energy wells
• Solar panels on the roof and facade

In addition to providing financial relief to those who need it most, the initiative also improved the safety and well-being of residents, with better lighting at entrances, improved fire safety, charging stations for electric bicycles and cars, and a green outdoor area to foster interactions between inhabitants.

An inspiring example of project management

Trust between the project leaders and the community was key in the success of this renovation project. The municipality took proactive steps to engage with the residents and address their concerns. The main worries were the disruption during the works and the cost of temporary relocation, but it was ensured that residents were provided with alternative accommodation during the most disruptive phases of the renovation. The success of the Sofienberggata 7 renovation is an inspiring example of how a well-planned and community-focused approach can transform energy renovation projects. As similar energy renovations are launched across Europe, this Norwegian case is a model for balancing energy efficiency upgrades with the needs of local communities, ensuring all residents are considered and cared for.

Pictures: © Pariman Boostani [used with permission]

More inspiring narratives

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

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.

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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

Universitetets Energifællesskab: Crowdfunding Solar Energy

The initiative started from the EU project AURORA, endeavouring to implement energy communities at 5 European universities and local district councils. In Aarhus, Denmark, this led to the creation of Universitetets Energifællesskab (UEF), Aarhus’ first energy community, officially registered with the Danish Business Authority in September 2023. At the heart of UEF is the installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic panels on Aarhus University’s campus. The project follows the Danish cooperative model (andelstanken) allowing participants to become co-owners of the solar energy installation by purchasing shares in the cooperative. Members of the cooperative receive annual economic returns based on the shares they own, which adds a financial incentive to their environmental participation. The electricity generated by the solar panels is sold back to Aarhus University at a fixed price, ensuring a sustainable and economically viable energy source for the campus.

Solar photovoltaic panels on Aarhus University’s rooftop

The role of students in the energy transition

While energy poverty may not be as pronounced in Aarhus as it is in other regions, students are considered a vulnerable group as most do not own homes and lack the financial resources to invest in green projects. To address this, UEF has set a low cost for shares, allowing students to participate in the energy community and take an active role in the green transition without significant financial barriers. This inclusivity ensures that students, often an overlooked group in major energy projects, have a stake in shaping a sustainable future while gaining hands-on experience in renewable energy initiatives.

An inspiring community based on active participation

One of UEF’s defining features is its commitment to community participation. Citizens of Aarhus, particularly AU students and staff, are not only co-owners of the solar installation but are also deeply involved in the decision-making process. Meetings, discussions, and workshops are held to foster a deeper understanding of the energy sector and its impact on climate change and inform members about the project’s progress. The project actively communicates through social media (in English), ensuring that the broader community stays informed and engaged.

The inauguration at Aarhus University

The project is not only a success for Aarhus University and the city of Aarhus but also an inspiring example of how cities can involve their residents in the green transition. By adopting a cooperative, citizen-led approach to energy production, UEF demonstrates that even groups with limited financial resources, like students, can have a meaningful role in contributing to climate goals.

Pictures: ©UEF [used with permission]

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