INNO-TREC is a European initiative, revolutionising energy value transactions within Community Renewable Energy (CREs). Through innovative energy crew and digital tools, we aim to make CREs more profitable, inclusive, and sustainable.
  • Dates1 January 2026 to 30 June 2029
  • SponsorHorizon Europe
  • Funded€5,360,894.00
  • PartnersUniversity of Porto (Coordinator), Cleanwatts Digital S.A., Fondazione LINKS – Leading Innovation & Knowledge for Society, Politecnico di Torino, DOMX Idiotiki Kefalaiouchiki, Etaireia (Greece), Cluster Viooikonomias Kai Perivallontos Dytikis Makedonias (Greece), Energeiaki Koinotita Vlastis (Greece), Universidad de Castilla‑La Mancha, Akkodis High Tech SAS (France), Elektroinstitut Milan Vidmar (Slovenia), VITO – Flemish Institute for Technological Research, Klimaan (Belgium), VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, EPRI Europe DAC, University College Cork, MOL Teic (Ireland), DCSIX Technologies Limited (Ireland), Electric Corby Community Interest Company (UK), Cranfield University, Energise Barnsley Limited (UK)

The transition towards the European Green Deal and broader sustainability goals has accelerated the development of innovative approaches to energy systems. Community energy initiatives have emerged as a promising pathway to support decentralised, citizen-led energy systems while delivering environmental, social, and economic benefits. However, the planning, optimisation, and cost-effective operation of community energy systems remain complex, presenting challenges for large-scale implementation.

The Horizon Europe funded INNO-TREC project brings together leading academic, industry, and community partners across Europe to address these challenges. The project aims to develop advanced digital tools, platforms, and methodologies to support the planning, implementation, and operation of community energy systems. These solutions will be demonstrated through pilot projects across six European countries, including the UK, showcasing innovative approaches for enabling resilient, inclusive, and scalable community energy transitions.

Progress

The first kick-off meeting was held in January at the University of Porto.

Further information

This project has been featured by the BBC, highlighting its wider impact and public relevance: www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20z2xw64jjo