Renewable energy cooperatives have welcomed the European Council's adoption of new electricity market rules on May 21.
This reform introduces energy sharing as a distinct activity and mandates member states to support it through policy and regulatory frameworks. Regulators must remove barriers to energy sharing and help smaller market actors sell renewable energy through power purchase agreements and guarantee schemes. Belgian energy minister Tinne Van der Straeten called the reform a milestone for a carbon-free and greener future.
The new rules allow member states to use two-way contracts to support investments in wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, and nuclear energy, reducing the impact of fossil fuel price volatility.
REScoop, the European Federation of Citizen Energy Cooperatives, welcomes the clearer concept of energy sharing but warns of competition from larger energy companies. They stress the need for fair regulations to ensure energy communities can flourish. The new rules will apply directly in all EU member states, marking significant progress for renewable energy and community empowerment.
