From 17–18 September 2025, the BALTICBEAT partners and stakeholders gathered in Denmark for an international study tour to explore how energy communities are shaping the green transition today. The program combined site visits, inspiring examples of citizen-driven initiatives, and strategic discussions among project partners.
Day 1 – Citizen-driven energy communities
The study tour began at Avedøre Green City, where local citizens, businesses, and institutions collaborate in Denmark’s first citizen-driven energy community. The initiative integrates solar panels, EV charging, and smart heating systems, showcasing how everyday cooperation can accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
The group then visited Zentropa Studios, one of Denmark’s leading creative industry hubs, which has invested in solar panels that now cover 25–30% of its energy use. This example demonstrated how even energy-intensive industries can take concrete steps toward sustainability.
The day concluded with a meeting at EBO Consult, an organisation that provides support and guidance for energy communities across Denmark, helping them grow and professionalise.
Day 2 – Living laboratories of sustainability
The second day took the BALTICBEAT team to Permatopia, an eco-village of 90 households that live almost self-sufficiently. The community combines wind power, geothermal heating, rainwater harvesting, and circular systems to create a holistic model of sustainable living.
Later, the team met with Sten Mortensen from Sydstevns Energy Community, where citizens, farmers, and businesses are joining forces to build a renewable energy network and communal heating system. The community will officially launch its organisation on 1 October 2025 – a clear sign of how local initiatives are taking ownership of the green transition.
19 September 2025 – Consortium meeting at Roskilde University
The final day of the visit was dedicated to a closed BALTICBEAT consortium meeting at Roskilde University. This partner-only session created space to focus on key project outcomes, including:
- developing the expert database,
- designing the MOOC platform concept,
- and preparing for the upcoming hackathon.
Inspiration for the Baltic region
The BALTICBEAT Study Tour in Denmark provided powerful examples of how collaboration, innovation, and citizen engagement can transform local energy systems. The lessons learned will directly inspire activities in the Baltic Sea region, supporting the growth of energy communities and strengthening their role in the green transition.
