How can cities deliver energy services that support households in energy poverty?

Across Europe, municipalities are under increasing pressure to tackle energy poverty while accelerating the clean energy transition. Local authorities are uniquely placed to act — yet many municipal teams still ask the same question: what works in practice, and how can cities deliver energy services that benefit people in energy poverty without increasing financial risk? 

The brochure “Social business models to fight local energy poverty” released in December by the POWER UP team, offers clear, concrete answers. Designed for municipal staff, local energy agencies and social services, it presents social energy business models that were tested in 4 European cities in Italy, Spain, Belgium and Czech Republic. From collective self-consumption and social cooperative shares, to One-Stop-Shops and public-led renewable energy schemes, the brochure shows how municipalities can facilitate access to renewable for vulnerable households — not as beneficiaries, but as participants. 

What makes POWER UP particularly relevant for signatories of the Covenant of Mayors is its strong local focus. The brochure builds on experiences in municipalities and regions including The Netherlands and North Macedonia. Each example highlights governance and business choices, partnerships with social actors, and the concrete role municipal departments can play — from energy and housing to social affairs. 

The brochure is available in seven languages: English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Macedonian, Italian and Czech. 

If you are looking for inspiration grounded in reality, and for approaches that align climate action with social justice, the POWER UP brochure is a must-read.