5 networks... and more followers
While the local partners are preparing the first network meetings, it is the task of the scientific partners to gain a better understanding of the SECAPs, the measures (including barriers) and the people (as well as the decision-making structures) working on these issues at the local level. One first research result was that people in all networks have a high willingness for the energy transition. The most outstanding characteristics of the networks are presented below.
Italian network, led by UCSA
Four municipalities in the Naples region have been working together for several years and now form the first Learning Municipality Network in Italy. Three of the municipalities have developed a joint SECAP. In addition to the international exchange, the PATH2LC project will contribute to further develop the knowledge and specific skills of local administrators in relation to energy and environmental issues.
Greek network, led by Sustainable City Network - SCN
Eight municipalities from a country-wide network participate in the PATH2LC project in order to get started with the implementation of planned SEAP measures, which five of the eight municipalities have developed. Special emphasis will be put on capacity building for networking processes and capacity building for heating and cooling planning, as well as on updating the SEAPs. Eight thematic priorities have been identified by the Municipalities including biomass from the production of oil from olive trees, which is exported worldwide ("kalamata olives"). The in-depth analysis within the project will have a focus on three selected municipalities.
Portuguese network, led by OesteSustentável
Nine municipalities from the western Portuguese Region are organised in a network with regular meetings, which will now be strengthened by the PATH2LC project and its technical experts. The network of this project consists of a mix of small to medium-sized municipalities. A major goal is to disseminate the results and experiences of the first Learning Municipality Network in order to reproduce it in the entire region. SEAPs that are available for each municipality are currently in the process of being updated right now and there is willingness to upgrade them to SECAPs.
Dutch network, led by CNNL
Four municipalities of the northern Netherlands will participate in the PATH2LC project as a Learning Municipality Network and take advantage of the international peer-to-peer learning. The cities are working together on different topics, among which the topic of energy transition is very important. In addition to mandatory regional plans for large scale sustainable energy production and a regional heat plan (=> SEAPs), all Dutch municipalities must develop a plan for the heat transition in the built environment by the end of 2021. Small SECAPs are planned for each district.
French network, led by ALTE69
The Rhône network includes municipalities of the French Rhône department. The eight municipal associations participating in the PATH2LC project have been selected by the French government to be "Positive Energy Territories". That is, there is a strong political commitment to implement local energy policies. The technical expertise for energy planning will contribute to this commitment and help to upscale what they are already doing. All these territories have been involved in energy topics for at least 3 years and have set up SEAP or SECAPs that are regularly updated.
