Does polycentrism deliver? A case study of energy community governance in Europe

The European Union's Clean Energy Package (CEP) plans to transform ‘passive consumers’ into ‘active citizens’ support the transition a carbon-neutral energy system by 2050. By stimulating growth of renewable communities, CEP works towards redefinition as an economic commodity common good. In this paper, we approach implementation through notion polycentricity. Building on previous literature, identified seven variables for effective polycentric governance: equity and co-benefits; inclusivity local involvement; information, demonstration innovation; ownership accountability; organizational multiplicity; experimentation flexibility; clear goals set enforced higher-level authority. To compare variety institutional configurations, analyze Norway, Netherlands, Germany. Our findings indicate that, in general, some degree polycentricity appears be beneficial transition. This is foundation building thus emphasis rightly placed there could expanded. Secondly, issues accountability stand out key enablers communities additional goods that they bring system. These need enabled financial terms deploy sufficient amount projects, e.g., giving them access risk capital early development stages. turn, requires regulations mechanisms being installed what precisely falls under definition community. Finally, found even promising approach, it does anchored with significant role higher level government order function effectively.