CETAC – Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centers

Background

To realistically advance towards net-zero emissions, municipalities must bolster their capacity to influence neighbourhoods and businesses. This involves not only a regulatory role but also fostering collaborative relationships that encourage sustainable practices. Moreover, an essential part of the journey towards net zero is the comprehensive training of municipal staff. Equipping these professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge is pivotal for the successful implementation of decarbonization initiatives. Clean Energy Transition Assistance Center (CETAC) will contribute to decarbonising cities by establishing in municipalities the Centers which will become an interface between municipalities and citizens and businesses (and other relevant stakeholders). They will be a framework for municipal staffers, employees of public companies, NGOs and volunteers to carry out municipal climate policies towards citizens and companies and ultimately facilitate their way to net zero. CETAC will provide guidance to set said policy targets, will train the personnel and help to establish a day-to-day routine of the centres., The core activities of the CETAC project will be concentrated in the region of Central and Eastern Europe, with a specific focus on Ukraine as a non-EU country. This strategic choice stems from the recognition of a relative lag in climate policies and emission reduction efforts within this region. By targeting Central and Eastern Europe, the CETAC project aims to address the unique challenges and opportunities prevalent in these areas, where the transition to cleaner energy sources may require tailored approaches. The project recognizes the importance of supporting municipalities in regions where climate policies may not be as advanced, ensuring that the establishment of CETACs serves as a catalyst for transformative change.

Project goals

The aim of the project is to support the decarbonisation of cities through the establishment of Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centres (CETACs) in municipalities. They will be closely linked to the structure of the municipalities and will focus on the implementation of green policies, supporting citizens and businesses in energy transition. By raising awareness and involving key stakeholders, they will support the achievement of climate goals. An in-depth analysis of current situation, the development of bespoke action plans for municipalities and the trainings of dedicated staff in climate and energy policy knowledge, as well as the development of the soft skills needed to raise public awareness, will create spaces tailored to local circumstances. They will be a framework for municipal staffers, employees of public companies, NGOs and volunteers to carry out municipal climate policies towards citizens and companies and ultimately facilitate their way to net zero. Pilot centres will be set up in 5 European countries: the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland and Romania to facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and the achievement of the 2050 climate goals.

Project activities

Development and implementation of action plans for CETACs adapted to local circumstances.
Establishment of 5 local Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centres (CETACs) in municipalities to strengthen cooperation with citizens and businesses.
Creation and implementation of theoretical and practical training programmes, workshops and study visits to improve the competences of CETAC staff and build interdepartmental cooperation in the municipalities.
Involving citizens in reducing energy consumption through investments and positive change of habits.
Involving private and public organisations in energy reduction activities by establishing strategic dialogues with stakeholders.
Dissemination of project results at national and international level, including through the organisation of a final European conference.

Expected project results

Effective functioning of 5 local Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centres (CETACs).
In-depth analysis of emissions and their reduction potential in pilot municipalities.
Improved competences of municipal representatives in the implementation of decarbonisation initiatives among residents and representatives of local organisations.
Strengthen municipalities’ cooperation with the local community and the business sector on green transition.
Support residents and businesses in energy efficiency measures.
Promote the CETAC concept to more municipalities nationally and internationally.