Slovenia showcases its energy communities living ecosystem
On May 27–28, 2025, partners of the ShareRES project gathered in Kranj, Slovenia, for the 5th Interregional Event, hosted by BSC Kranj in cooperation with project lead Extremadura Energy Agency (AGENEX). Over two days, participants explored innovative solutions and good practices to accelerate the development of renewable energy communities.
Enabling Energy Communities in Slovenia
BSC Kranj collaborates with the Local Energy Agency of Gorenjska, municipalities, the national Ministry for Environment, Climate and Energy, and other stakeholders to foster the creation of energy communities in the Gorenjska region.
During the event, Dr. Tomislav Tkalec, Head of the Renewable Energy Sector at the Ministry, presented the national legal framework for energy communities in Slovenia, supported by EU recovery and resilience instruments.
Technical innovations were also discussed:
- Gorenjske Elektrarne presented solar and battery storage systems.
- Elektro Gorenjska showcased data-driven simulations for electricity consumption and energy efficiency.
- Jure Eržen from the Local Energy Agency introduced the results of a co-financing scheme (2024–2026) for solar installations on public buildings and parking areas, which is also facilitating the formation of several new energy communities in Gorenjska.
Site Visits: Energy in Practice
Several site visits illustrated practical applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy:
Day 1:
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Stane Žagar Primary School (Kranj): Presented by Anton Marc, showing recent energy efficiency upgrades.
- Public Pool in Kranj: Led by Emil Tahirović (Institute for Sport Kranj) and Anton Marc, this site demonstrated a comprehensive energy renovation using water-to-water heat pumps, solar thermal collectors, and smart heating systems.
Day 2:
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Municipality of Bohinj: Introduced by Mayor Jože Sodja, who outlined the region’s efforts in renewable energy, district heating, and public building efficiency. A visit to a passive kindergarten in Bohinjska Bistrica illustrated these efforts.
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Moste Hydropower Plant (Žirovnica): In operation since 1952, the plant produces ~60 GWh annually and plays a critical role in grid stability. The visit included insights into its IT-based monitoring and emergency systems.
Looking Ahead
Despite existing challenges, the event confirmed that Gorenjska has a strong legislative framework, solid knowledge, and technical expertise to develop advanced, citizen-driven energy communities. These regional strengths align closely with ShareRES’s wider mission: to support the transition towards decentralised renewable energy models across Europe through policy learning, local engagement, and interregional cooperation.