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Energy Communities in the Transition to Renewable Sources: Innovative Models of Energy Self-Sufficiency through Organic Waste

Author

Listed:
  • Francesco Bellini

    (Department of Management, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Paola Campana

    (Department of Management, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Riccardo Censi

    (Department of Management, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Matteo Di Renzo

    (Department of Management, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Anna Maria Tarola

    (Department of Management, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy)

Abstract

This paper presents the evolution and role of energy communities in the context of the transition to renewable energy sources. Such communities are presented as an innovative and resilient response to the challenges posed by climate change. Their importance emerges from their ability to decentralize energy production, increasing local security and reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources and external suppliers. However, despite the obvious benefits, this contribution highlights several challenges, such as the need for significant upfront investment and the presence of regulatory barriers that may hinder the integration of these solutions into existing energy systems. A detailed bibliometric analysis is used, focusing on specific research areas and using tools to map the most relevant keywords and emerging trends. The results of the bibliometric analysis highlight how energy communities are emerging as key players in the sustainability landscape, capable of addressing and overcoming contemporary environmental challenges. The research reaffirms the transformative potential of energy communities in promoting a more sustainable and resilient future.

Suggested Citation

  • Francesco Bellini & Paola Campana & Riccardo Censi & Matteo Di Renzo & Anna Maria Tarola, 2024. "Energy Communities in the Transition to Renewable Sources: Innovative Models of Energy Self-Sufficiency through Organic Waste," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-14, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:15:p:3789-:d:1447880
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Idiano D’Adamo & Massimo Gastaldi & Linda Lezzi & Vincenzo Provenzano, 2026. "Public administration as a driver of sustainability within energy communities," International Environmental Agreements: Politics, Law and Economics, Springer, vol. 26(1), pages 19-47, March.
    2. Romano, Elliot & Trutnevyte, Evelina, 2026. "Local energy communities in rural Switzerland: national scalability under different incentives schemes and economic scenarios," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PH).
    3. Sanvayos Siripoke & Varinvoradee Jaranya & Chalie Charoenlarpnopparut & Ruengwit Khwanrit & Puthisovathat Prum & Prasertsak Charoen, 2025. "Aggregator-Based Optimization of Community Solar Energy Trading Under Practical Policy Constraints: A Case Study in Thailand," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(13), pages 1-38, June.

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