POWERINGCITIZENS is a project funded by the European Commission through Citizens,Equality,Rights and Values Programme (CERV),
focused on promoting clean energy and ensuring a just and inclusive transition.It aims to empower energy-poor citizens through community actions and support.
This project is implemented by BGF(Kosovo),UNIVPM(Italy),CRN (Germany),ECREC (Netherlands),INZEB (Greece),ETMI (Albania).
PoweringCitizens 'Energy Poverty Training Equips Young Professionals for Global Impact
A Global Gathering of Change-Makers
This high-impact initiative brought together 23 dedicated participants from diverse backgrounds,
including participants from the Netherlands,Germany,Italy,Greece,Albania,and Kosovo.The
participants,aged 18-30,successfully completed an intensive curriculum and were certified as energy poverty advisors,ready to drive positive change in their respective communities.
The training offered an immersive learning experience,covering critical topics such as:
- Conceptualizing energy poverty and implementing effective solutions
- Exploring the European and global energy landscape
- Addressing infrastructure and environmental challenges in the Balkans and beyond

A highlight of the program was the study visit to the state-of-the-laboratories at UNIVPM,where
participants engaged with cutting-edge H2 P2P systems and second-life battery applications.These
hands-on demonstrations provided a deeper understanding of innovative energy solutions and
sustainability strategies.Furthermore,interactive sessions fostered dynamic discussions and peer
learning,enabling participants to exchange insights,explore real-world case studies,and develop action plans for tackling energy poverty in their home countries.

Looking Ahead:A Network of Certified Energy Advisors
As the training concludes,all certified participants are now empowered to apply their expertise in the field, advocating for sustainable energy solutions and community-driven initiatives.Their collective efforts will play a crucial role in mitigating energy poverty and fostering a just energy transition across Europe and beyond.
This milestone event was made possible with the support of INZEB,UNIVPM,ECREC,the
Environmental and Territorial Management Institute (ETMI),and the Comparative Research
Network (CRN)and Balkan Green Foundation(BGF),reinforcing the commitment to a more sustainable and just energy future.


The journey continues -these young energy advisor are now catalysts for change in the fight against energy poverty!”
DISCLAIMER: Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s)only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).Neither the European Union nor EACEA can beheld responsible for them.