Barriers to the Diffusion of Clean Energy Communities: Comparing Early Adopters and the General Public

Tanja Kamin, Urša Golob () and Tina Kogovšek
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Tanja Kamin: Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Urša Golob: Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tina Kogovšek: Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 9, 1-20

Abstract: The transition to clean energy is at the heart of the European Union’s climate strategy, with citizen participation promoted as a key driver. Clean energy communities (CECs) are central to this vision, yet their uptake across Europe remains limited. This study provides a novel comparative perspective on perceived barriers to CEC participation by examining two distinct groups: current members (early adopters) and the general public (potential adopters). Using a cross-national mixed-methods approach, we integrate data from semi-structured interviews with CEC members and a representative survey of citizens in six European countries. The results show that awareness of CECs is generally low and that initiatives are still in the early stages of adoption. While interviewees highlighted regulatory complexity and institutional barriers, survey respondents were more likely to cite lack of awareness, knowledge gaps, and financial concerns. The findings reveal distinct patterns in perceived barriers across adopter groups and national contexts. To support broader engagement, we propose a dual strategy: addressing structural challenges through regulatory and policy reform, while strengthening targeted communication and outreach. We also highlight the role of early adopters as trusted messengers who can help bridge the gap between innovation and mainstream adoption.

Keywords: clean energy community; energy transition; barriers; behaviour change; diffusion of innovations (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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