Amplifying mayors’ voices: new opportunities for local leaders to share and connect

2025 marks Energy Cities’ 35th anniversary: 35 years inspiring transition journeys, creating partnerships, sharing ideas, and so much more. As part of this milestone, we’re launching two new activities – exclusive to our members – aiming to place local leaders at the heart of the conversation.

In a time when amplifying the voices of local leaders is more important than ever to counter false and hostile narratives, our new ‘Mayors Voice’ activities provide a vital space for local elected representatives to draw inspiration, exchange ideas and find strength amongst peers.

Are you ready to mingle in 2025? Join our Mayors Clubs and 15-15 Mayors Energy Talks!

Mayors Clubs: a space for meaningful dialogue

First and foremost, we are excited to introduce our new Mayors Clubs, bringing together small groups of likeminded mayors, deputy mayors and local councillors to deep dive into specific topics across Energy Cities’ five thematic hubs. These gatherings, held both in-person and online, aim to create a safe space for local elected representatives to have sincere, open exchanges on their experiences and the challenges they face in different areas.

Each club will be hosted by a mayor from Energy Cities network. As close-door meetings, the content of the discussions is not publicly disseminated. However, as part of our mission to influence EU policy based on mayors’ experiences, the clubs’ discussions will directly inform Energy Cities’ advocacy, shaping our positions and recommendations on key EU legislation and instruments. The clubs will also offer opportunities for mayors to connect with EU policymakers and media to make their voices heard.

2025 Mayors Club Agenda

This year, we will have three Mayors Clubs. These clubs will kick off with in-person sessions at our Annual Forum in Besançon on April 10th, 2025, followed by virtual gatherings later in the year.

Mayors club: Inclusive renewable energy solutions

Local energy ownership is key for climate action and democracy. It combats energy poverty, fosters community cohesion, and empowers municipalities to lead. But how can we promote citizen-based renewable energy?

Join this 2025 club to exchange insights with fellow mayors on advancing inclusive renewable energy. This session will contribute to shaping Energy Cities’ stance on the EU Citizen Energy Package.

Mayors Club: Engaging local Communities in Clean Heating

The transition to clean heating is vital for decarbonisation, but it comes with challenges. How can municipalities effectively communicate about this shift? How can we build alliances with citizens, businesses, and local stakeholders? And how do we respond to setbacks?

This club will explore strategies for engaging communities in clean heating initiatives. It will also contribute to shaping Energy Cities’ position on the EU Heating and Cooling Strategy.

Mayors club: Resource-wise urban planning

Urban planning is a powerful tool for creating liveable cities, ensuring affordable housing, and reducing resource (land, water, material) and energy use. This club offers mayors a space to share experiences, and practical examples, and address challenges they face.

This club will help shape Energy Cities’ perspective on the EU Sustainable and Affordable Housing Plan.

Interested in joining a club? If a local elected representative from your city would like to participate in one of these exclusive clubs, please reach out to melanie.bourgeois@energy-cities.eu.

15-15 Mayors Energy Talks: a space to shine

Our second new initiative for 2025, the 15-15 Mayors Energy Talks, is designed to shine a spotlight on mayors’ achievements. These talks provide a platform for local elected representatives to share their successes and inspire others through concise, impactful discussions. Each session features a 15-minute story from a mayor, deputy mayor or local councillor, followed by a 15-minute discussion with the audience.

These brief, 30-minute talks are an excellent way for mayors to spark inspiration by sharing achievements they are proud of. For the audience, it’s a great way to quickly tune in to learn from others’ successes, challenges, and creative solutions—all without taking too much time out of their day.

You have a story you are proud of and would like to share with the Energy Cities community? Please reach out to melanie.bourgeois@energy-cities.eu.

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