The aim of the PANEL2050 project was to create sustainable and replicable energy networks at the local level, where relevant stakeholders work together to develop energy visions, strategies, and action plans for the transition to low-carbon communities by 2050. The PANEL2050 project focused on creating such networks in Central and Eastern European countries, where such networks are almost non-existent at the local level and therefore require additional support to implement the green transition.
The PANEL project was implemented between 2017 and 2019.
The project resulted in the creation of a target group engagement model suitable for Central and Eastern Europe, a policy-making handbook, and, as its most important output, the CEESEN network, of which EMÜ is a founding member.
Guidebook on Advocating for Sustainable Energy in Central and Eastern Europe
The aim of current guidebook is to provide guidance on how organisations can develop efficient energy advocacy activities, including stakeholder engagement, roadmapping, marketing and communications, fundraising and policy analysis. These skills will empower and enhance the co-operation in the sustainable energy sector. Finding a path towards sustainable development will require the pooling of diverse perspectives, knowledge and resources. The purpose of this handbook is to be a practical guide targeted for Central and Eastern European countries. The hope is that a wide spectrum of users can take it up and adapt the content to their own circumstances.
CEESEN policy advocacy guidebook (PDF)
CEESEN Guidebook table of contents
What is CEESEN?
The Central and Eastern European Sustainable Energy Network (CEESEN) is a web-based platform created as a result of the PANEL 2050 project, which aims to facilitate communication and connect various energy stakeholders in the region. With the support of the project partners and the wider involvement of the CEESEN network, organizations and individuals can begin to shape a sustainable future for their communities.
Cooperation – establishing partnerships
An important step in the project proposal development process is establishing partnerships between organizations and selecting a lead or applicant organization. The CEESEN platform can be a useful tool for finding potential partners by looking at projects previously supported by the funder. These partners have the added value of already having experience with the funder; this is also a way to link your project to previous projects.
Communication
CEESEN connects all stakeholders in the energy sector: individuals, cities, municipalities, regions, researchers, non-governmental organizations, energy agencies, and public institutions. It facilitates communication between members in English and the national language.
Learning
The platform allows for the sharing of best practices, articles, interests, and experiences. It is an excellent repository of knowledge on the low-carbon economy.
Digital democracy
CEESEN is a platform that strengthens dialogue at the local level and helps make the voice of Central and Eastern Europe heard at the EU level. It is a place where stakeholder involvement and cooperation can make a difference.
Join the CEESEN community here: https://ceesen.org/about-us/ceesen-registration/link opens in new page
The PANEL2050 website with all materials can be found here: https://ceesen.org/panel-2050/link opens in new page
10 Key Principles of Sustainable Energy Advocacy
1. Analyze the issue closely and identify clear advocacy goals
2. Identify the key political actors and understand the political system in your area (i.e. local, regional or national government)
3. Identify all other stakeholders and prioritize their importance based upon their level of influence and interests in regard to your issue.
4. Connect stakeholders’ interests to your goals.
5. Engage your stakeholders (political and otherwise) and develop relationships with them
6. Be clear about what you want from each stakeholder and approach them accordingly
7. Make sure your marketing and communications strategy is aligned with your advocacy goals and strategy
8. Stakeholders do not have to agree on everything—just enough to secure your goal
9. Social consensus isn’t permanent and must continually be asserted and defended. Make sure to preserve your relationships with stakeholders for future efforts
10. Diversify resources. Do not be afraid to be creative
