Rising energy prices, increasing pressure to reduce emissions, and the need for greater energy stability are leading cities and city districts to seek new solutions in the energy sector. One of the key directions is community energy, which enables the efficient use of local renewable sources and the sharing of generated electricity among multiple buildings. This approach delivers not only economic savings, but also strengthens self-sufficiency, system stability, and the long-term sustainability of municipal operations.
Analysis of Community Energy Opportunities at the City District Level
As part of one of our projects, we focused on assessing the feasibility of implementing community energy at the level of a city district of the Capital City of Prague. The objective was to evaluate the technical, legislative, and economic potential of electricity sharing among municipal buildings and to propose realistic scenarios for its gradual implementation.
The analysis was based on a detailed mapping of the district’s energy management, particularly an assessment of the consumption of public buildings and the potential for electricity generation from photovoltaic power plants. Special emphasis was placed on identifying suitable buildings for inclusion in energy sharing, aligning their operational profiles, and assessing the potential for on-site consumption of generated energy.
Alternative Approaches and Legislative Framework
The project also included a comparison of different community energy models – from simpler forms of sharing among active customers to the establishment of a fully-fledged energy community. In addition to their economic benefits, we assessed organizational complexity, operational risks, and compliance with the current legislative framework.
The outcome is a clearly structured decision-support document enabling the city district to make informed decisions on next steps and to select a model aligned with its capacities, ambitions, and long-term energy strategy.
Benefits for the City District and Its Residents
Implementing community energy at the city district level brings a range of direct and indirect benefits. Beyond reducing energy costs and improving the use of local renewable sources, it enhances energy stability and reduces dependence on external suppliers. At the same time, the project creates a platform for further development – such as integrating additional buildings, expanding generation capacity, or incorporating battery storage systems.
The analysis demonstrates that even within the complex urban environment of a large metropolitan area, community energy can be implemented in a meaningful and gradual manner, without the need for disruptive, large-scale upfront investments.
How We Approach Community Energy Projects
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Related topics
Community energy
Cities
Sustainability
Public administration
At Gatum Group, we take a comprehensive approach to community energy – combining technical analysis, economic modelling, in-depth knowledge of the legislative framework, and hands-on experience with public administration. We support our clients not only in assessing potential, but also in defining a realistic implementation roadmap aligned with their capabilities and long-term objectives.
Community energy thus moves beyond an abstract concept and becomes a practical instrument for the modern and sustainable operation of city districts.
