The Cross-Border Energy Communities (CBECs) initiative, promoted by DG REGIO and jointly managed by the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR) and the Mission Opérationnelle Transfrontalière (MOT), has officially launched a new call for proposals to foster sustainable energy cooperation in border regions across Europe. This ambitious project aims to support the creation and development of energy communities that span national boundaries, helping for instance local actors overcome legal, technical, and administrative challenges through tailored guidance and funding. Drawing on the 202 Handbook on Cross-Border Energy Communities (CBECs), the initiative provides up to €15,000 in financial support per pilot action, along with expert technical assistance from REScoop.eu, the European federation of energy communities.
The call for proposals opened on 10 July and will remain active until 21 November 2025. Seven pilot actions will be selected to receive support in developing (quasi) cross-border energy communities ((Q-)CBECs). Eligible applicants include cross-border entities such as EGTCs and Euroregions, local and regional authorities in border areas, citizen cooperatives, associations, and SMEs with relevant projects at any stage of development. The initiative is part of the European Commission’s broader commitment to achieving the goals of the European Green Deal and strengthening territorial cohesion, particularly in regions that face unique cross-border challenges.
Applicants are encouraged to explore the LICHT methodology developed by the REScoop.eu and the concept of (Q-)CBECs, which are central to the project’s framework. The CBECs initiative also aims to build a community of practice by sharing knowledge, showcasing good examples, and promoting replicable models across Europe. More information, including eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and access to the Handbook, is available on the official project website at border-energy-communities.eu. For any questions or further assistance, interested parties can contact the CBEC team directly at cbec@mot.asso.fr.