The EU Energy Projects Podcast: The E-Nergy Cluster in action - insights from DECODIT and ENERGENIUS

In the latest episode of the EU Energy Projects podcast, I had the opportunity to learn more about the E-Nergy cluster, where collaboration across projects is proving to be a powerful driver of innovation.

Energy clusters, promoted by the European Commission, are designed to create networks of cooperation that go beyond individual project boundaries. Instead of working in isolation, projects are joining forces to tackle shared challenges, amplify their voice, and reach citizens more effectively.

A joint vision for change

As Stratis Kanarachos (DECODIT project) explains, collaboration in clusters extends far beyond technological development. It also touches on change management, supporting citizens in adapting behaviours and mindsets as new solutions are introduced. Joint efforts are helping to raise awareness, make technologies more accessible, and identify quick wins through active communication between projects and local communities.

This two-way exchange not only shapes strategy but also strengthens engagement, ensuring citizens see tangible benefits. Beyond outreach, projects are also collaborating on joint publications and envision stronger ties in technology and data sharing.

Stronger together: building synergies

For Kostas Arvanitis (ENERGENIUS project), the cluster approach strengthens visibility and credibility. By aligning under a shared brand at major events, such as Enlit Europe 2025 in Bilbao, cluster members can showcase collective progress and present a unified vision to policymakers, businesses, and citizens.

Synergies are already taking shape, from co-authoring white papers to coordinating demonstrations. The cluster is prioritising “easy and big wins” that can quickly benefit communities, while laying the groundwork for deeper technical collaboration in the years ahead.

Policies and local realities

One recurring theme in the discussion is the alignment between EU energy policies and the needs of local authorities. According to Kanarachos, awareness and readiness have significantly improved compared to a decade ago, but many communities still face local barriers tied to socio-economic or regulatory contexts. Feeding these insights back into EU-level policy is crucial for accelerating the impact of initiatives such as the Green Deal and Fit for 55.

Practical challenges, such as the slow rollout of smart meters in some countries, highlight the need for tailored, context-aware approaches. Both gentlemen stress that the energy transition must be co-created with citizens, not only implemented from the top down.

From fragmentation to integration

At the project level, both DECODIT and ENERGENIUS showcase how EU research can directly address citizens’ needs. DECODIT focuses on integrating fragmented building renovation solutions, bringing together windows, insulation, heating and digital controls into coherent, optimised packages. ENERGENIUS, meanwhile, explores data-driven innovations to empower citizens and businesses to make smarter energy choices.

Together, these projects illustrate the role of EU clusters as platforms for knowledge exchange, practical experimentation and collective impact. As Europe moves forward on its decarbonisation journey, collaboration will remain central, not just among projects, but with citizens at the heart of the transition.

Listen to the podcast below

The EU Project Podcast is a fortnightly podcast presenting Europe’s key energy projects.
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