Community Energy Ambassadors Course

Empowering Individuals to Lead Community Energy Projects

Course Background

Energy communities are crucial for fostering a decentralized, sustainable energy system
that benefits both people and the planet. ECAS Institute’s Community Energy Ambassadors
course equips aspiring organizers with the knowledge and tools to start and manage energy
initiatives in their local communities.

The program combines theoretical understanding of policy frameworks and challenges with
practical skills in community engagement and movement building. Participants will actively
develop their own projects, culminating in a final presentation, preparing them to drive
a more equitable and sustainable energy future.

Course Objectives

Understand theoretical aspects and policy frameworks of community energy projects

Identify and navigate challenges in the current energy landscape

Acquire practical skills in community engagement and movement building

Develop foundational steps for setting up a local energy community

Formulate and present initial ideas for a community energy project

What You Will Learn

The theory behind energy communities and relevant policy frameworks

How to recognize and manage challenges faced by community energy projects

Practical strategies for engaging local communities effectively

Techniques for movement building and sustaining energy initiatives

Hands-on development and presentation of your own community energy project

Duration and Program

This is an annual structured training course. Participants will combine theoretical
sessions with practical skill-building and hands-on project development, culminating in
a final seminar where developed projects are presented. Detailed schedules are
provided upon registration.

Target Participants

Individuals interested in establishing their own energy community

Non-profit and NGO professionals in energy and related fields

Renewable energy sector professionals

Individuals from under-represented groups across Europe

Training Modules

ModuleDetailsIntroduction to Community Energy and Policy FrameworksDefinitions, benefits, models, decentralized energy role, European and national policies, legal structuresChallenges and Opportunities in Community EnergyFinancial challenges, grid integration, social acceptance, and identifying market opportunitiesCommunity Engagement and Movement BuildingPrinciples of engagement, stakeholder mapping, facilitation, building sustainable movementsDeveloping Your Community Energy ProjectNeeds assessment, feasibility studies, project scope, objectives, business models, governanceProject Presentation and Future StepsEffective presentations, peer feedback, funding avenues, partnerships, roadmap for implementation

Training Style

The course includes PowerPoint presentations, lectures, case studies, breakout sessions,
field visits, and interactive discussions. Guest speakers join both in-person and via
online platforms to provide real-world insights. Group discussions and plenary sessions
ensure practical learning alongside theoretical knowledge.

General Notes

Training manuals and additional reference materials provided

Certificate awarded upon successful completion

Tailor-made courses available upon request

Contact: info@ecasiafrica.org