Fleur Meijer
Project title: "Optimizing Co-Creation for Sustainable Energy Transition: A Case Study of Local Energy Communities in the MRDH Region”
In the municipalities of the Metropolitan Region of Rotterdam Den Haag (MRDH), numerous local energy communities play an active role in the global energy transition, an important step in combating climate change and promoting sustainability. These local energy communities have emerged as essential players in this transition, acting as drivers for innovation and development. Co-creation, a collaborative approach involving diverse stakeholders like citizens, businesses, and governmental bodies, is central to the energy transition within these local communities. However, its full potential is unexplored, posing an essential issue: “How can co-creation within local energy communities in the MRDH be optimised to accelerate the energy transition towards sustainability and efficiency?”
This research, therefore, delves into the transformative potential of these communities as drivers for a sustainable and efficient energy transition. The study aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by exploring academic conceptualizations of co-creation within the context of the energy transition. Moreover, it investigates the practical implementation of co-creation strategies within the local energy communities, identifying the various activities and initiatives in use.
To achieve this, the study employs in-depth interviews and direct observations with a diverse group of participants, including community members, local authorities, and possibly industry partners. Through these engagements, the research aims to identify the challenges and barriers that hinder effective co-creation while also identifying instances of success and best practices. Ultimately, the study intends to propose a set of strategies for optimising co-creation projects, moving the MRDH into a future characterised by sustainability and efficiency in energy transition efforts.
What is the contribution to the Energy Transition Lab?
The thesis, "Optimizing Co-Creation for Sustainable Energy Transition," makes a valuable contribution to the Energy Transition Lab through its interdisciplinary approach, real-world application, and policy relevance. By examining co-creation practices in local energy communities, it aligns with the lab's mission to advance applied research in energy transition. Furthermore, the research delves into practical insights and challenges, playing a crucial role in shaping decision-making and formulating strategies to advance the energy transition.
