The EU Energy Projects Podcast: Corporate capture with REScoop Part 2

In the second episode of our two-part podcast series on corporate capture and true democracy in energy communities, guests Jean-Pierre van Linn and Siwart Zomer from Energiesamen, members of REScoop, discuss their organisation’s role and challenges with the topic.

Energiesamen is a Dutch federation representing around 700 energy cooperatives. Its primary functions are lobbying on a national level, providing financial access, and delivering IT and educational services to its members. They emphasise the importance of democratic governance within energy communities to prevent corporate capture—where private entities might exploit community resources.

One of the lobbying efforts by Energiesamen focuses on embedding the concept of democracy within the legal definition of energy communities.

Although the term was intended to be part of the EU regulation, it was omitted during the complex legislative process.

Energiesamen is now working to ensure this democratic principle is clearly defined in Dutch law, reflecting their belief that democratic governance is crucial in keeping energy projects citizen-focused and preventing corporate domination.

The organisation also works to protect the integrity of energy cooperatives by preventing commercial entities from misusing cooperative structures for profit.

They have set up mechanisms, including a certification process, to distinguish genuine energy communities from commercial ventures posing as such. This approach helps maintain the community-oriented nature of these projects, ensuring that the benefits remain within the local population.

Energiesamen’s efforts highlight the importance of democratic governance and financial independence in the sustainable development of energy communities. By advocating for clear legal definitions and providing tailored financial support, they aim to empower local communities in the energy transition while safeguarding against corporate capture.

Listen to Part 1: The EU Energy Projects Podcast: Corporate capture with REScoop Part One

The EU Energy Projects Podcast is a fortnightly show presenting Europe’s key EU-funded energy projects. Subscribe and listen to all our episodes on your preferred streaming platform below.

Listen to previous episodes:
Renovating buildings for energy efficiency with outPHit
Sustainable PV Recycling with PHOTORAMA
Communities in urban energy islands with Project RENergetic