Report of activities 2018
An overview of what was done in 2018, who Energy Cities are, how we operate and what is coming next
Local governance
Fossil-free cities
Community energy
Food systems
Fair economies
Mayors’ boldness is a highlight of 2018, whether at the Global Climate Action Summit in San Francisco, or at the Covenant of Mayors Europe ceremony, in official reports and mainstream media: the acknowledgment of local actions for the transition has never been so prominent. However, it mirrors a rising emergency for radically changing our trajectories, as said in the IPCC report or the “Emissions gap report” of the UN Environment Programme. In our internal discussions, Energy Cities’ members have made it clear that the transformation of our urban fabrics and of our consumption patterns has started, but still needs to accelerate. Our “Claiming a crisis” proposals call for mainstreaming the drastic reduction of our energy and resource needs, as well as the fostering of prosperous, resilient local economies, into the EU policies for the next decade. It is of utmost urgency, as we are witnessing an uprising of citizens across Europe, fuelled by social injustices and fear of migration.
Cities are the heart of the energy transition. They are already driving societal change through decentralised, renewable power production and by reducing the energy needs of our society, but a genuine power shift towards local communities is long overdue. It is they who will ultimately deliver a fossil fuel-free energy system
Why we do what we do
Cities are the hearth of energy transition. They are already driving societal change through decentralised, renewable power production and by reducing the energy needs of our society, but a genuine power shift towards local communities is long overdue. It is they who will ultimately deliver a fossil fuel-free energy system.
And how
Energy Cities works with cities to radically transform legal and political frameworks, so cities are recognized for what they truly are: drivers of the energy transition. We advocate and work towards a complete reform of EU legislation that is currently impeding cities in meeting their ambitious targets.
Projects that challenge the way we produce and distribute energy, and engage both municipalities and communities are one of our core activities. We provide cities with in-depth exchange and implementation opportunities that allow them to lead by example. We also create spaces for cities to connect and share experiences, among themselves and with various stakeholders.
Our network of committed cities and their local communities have a lot to share. We spread stories of change to trigger action across Europe. Showing what is possible through their combined stories of success, challenges and expertise can inspire others in their journey.
