ENERGY COMMUNITIES IN EUROPE: A NEW IMPETUS FOR COOPERATIVES?

Abstract

Energy communities (ECs) are introduced in Europe by Directive 2018/2001 and Directive 2019/944. ECs are a legal entity which values the creation of
environmental or socioeconomic benefits for its partners or members or the areas where it operates, more than financial benefits. The directives do not refer to any legal category. However, the characteristics of the ECs remind the cooperative principles of the ICA.

This paper analyzes the European regulations and the advances made in some Member States, especially those pioneers in the creation of these communities and focuses on the Spanish legal system. The objective is to know if the cooperative formula can be the best alternative to articulate ECs.