Europe knows it must move fast on renewables and grid infrastructure. But speed without fairness only builds friction. In this episode, Marine Cornelis speaks with Arthur Hinsch, Senior Expert at ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, about the Fast and Fair Renewables & Grids Initiative — a first-of-its-kind European consensus on how to scale up solar, wind, and grid projects while ensuring that local communities see real benefits and have a voice. Endorsed by a broad alliance — from WindEurope and SolarPower Europe to Energy Cities, REScoop.eu (http://REScoop.eu), CAN Europe, EEB, and the European Youth Energy Network — the initiative sets out five principles defining what “fair” looks like on the ground. Arthur shares what it took to reach agreement among actors who rarely sit at the same table. He explains how fairness is not a barrier to progress, but a condition for it — and how a new checklist for local governments can help mediate tensions, bring transparency, and get projects off the ground faster. He also reflects on his own path from studying Japanese culture to shaping European energy diplomacy, and why, after steering this landmark collaboration, he’s taking a sabbatical in Japan to reconnect with long-term thinking. Highlights: Why fairness and speed are inseparable in Europe’s energy transition. The five principles behind the Fast and Fair Renewables & Grids Initiative. How local mayors can use the new checklist to talk with citizens and developers. What makes this cross-sector agreement unique — and replicable. Arthur’s reflections on collaboration, balance, and what Japan might teach Europe. Explore the initiative: https://fastandfairenergy.eu Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes s=1">straight from your inbox Reach out to Marine Cornelis via app/profile/marinenextenerg. bsky. socia">BlueSky</a> or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www. linkedin. com/in/marinecornelis">LinkedIn Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on com/Energethic">Patreon © nextenergyconsumer. eu/">Next Energy Consumer, 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Special episode recorded live at the ACCE closing event What if the most powerful technology for the energy transition wasn’t digital, but human? In this Energ’Ethic special, recorded live in Brussels, Marine Cornelis brings together the voices behind Access to Capital for Community Energy (ACCE) — a project that helped citizens across Europe finance their own energy future. From Romania to Belgium, from Croatia to the UK, communities built cooperatives, social funds, and ethical banking partnerships. What they discovered went far beyond kilowatts: finance can build trust, resilience, and democracy. Highlights • Europe as Enabler – CINEA’s Michele Sansoni on how EU support is nurturing a new generation of energy communities. • From Growth to Maturity – REScoop.eu (http://REScoop.eu)’s Sara Tachelet on a movement growing stronger and more professional. • Courage in Romania – Camelia Sava’s team created a social fund and powered a kindergarten, despite limited resources. • Federations as Translators – Energie Samen and Énergie Partagée show how local networks bridge citizens and finance. • Solidarity in Action – Energy4All’s Mark Luntley on turning citizen investment into global cooperation. • Equal Rights, Everywhere – Corina Murafa calls for citizens in all EU countries to access and finance energy fairly. • Keeping Money Local – Dirk Vansintjan reminds us every euro reinvested strengthens communities. Takeaway Finance works best when it is a dialogue — between citizens, financiers, and institutions. When done well, it becomes a tool for trust Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes straight from your inbox (?s=1) Reach out to Marine Cornelis via BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/marinenextenerg.bsky.socia) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinecornelis) Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on Patreon (https://patreon.com/Energethic) © Next Energy Consumer (https://www.nextenergyconsumer.eu/), 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on Energ’Ethic, we bring back a conversation worth hearing again. Stan d’Herbemont of REScoop.eu (http://REScoop.eu) explains why citizen energy projects still face a “risk premium” simply because they are democratic. Ownership and participation are often misread by traditional finance as weakness instead of strength. As the ACCE project (https://acce.rescoop.eu)reaches its closing event on 7 October 2025, this replay offers the context behind our recent episodes with Chris Vrettos and Junior. Chris showed how ACCE has channelled millions into citizen-led projects. Junior reminded us that energy is also about hope and belonging. Stan sets the stage by showing why those tools were needed in the first place. What you’ll hear: Why democratic projects are still labelled “risky.” How public finance and guarantees can change the flow. Why communities deliver more than kilowatts: jobs, trust, inclusion. 🎧 Cash Current is back to remind us that citizen energy is worth the investment. Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes straight from your inbox (?s=1) Reach out to Marine Cornelis via BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/marinenextenerg.bsky.socia) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinecornelis) Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on Patreon (https://patreon.com/Energethic) © Next Energy Consumer (https://www.nextenergyconsumer.eu/), 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do we move community energy from “too risky” for banks to a serious part of Europe’s clean energy future? In this episode, Marine Cornelis speaks with Chris Vrettos (REScoop.eu (http://REScoop.eu) & Electra Energy) about the ACCE project, which is closing with its final event on 7 October. Key takeaways Community Energy Financing Schemes (CEFS): tools built by and for communities that make projects bankable and scalable. From risk to resilience: bundling many small initiatives into portfolios that investors take seriously. Inclusion by design: solidarity shares and ethical finance models that bring vulnerable households into the transition. Policy momentum: how the Social Climate Fund, EU budget, and potential EIB guarantees can support citizen-led finance. Why listen? Finance is never neutral. As Chris reminds us, it can either lock communities out or bring them in. ACCE has shown that citizen-driven finance is not only possible, but scalable. 🎧 Tune in now — and if you want to see what comes next, join the ACCE closing conference on 7 October 2025 (https://acce.rescoop.eu/news/acce-conference), where Marine will moderate the discussion. Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes straight from your inbox (?s=1) Reach out to Marine Cornelis via BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/marinenextenerg.bsky.socia) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinecornelis) Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on Patreon (https://patreon.com/Energethic) © Next Energy Consumer (https://www.nextenergyconsumer.eu/), 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

with Junior Mbangala, researcher at Oxford and policy analyst at the WTO What if the energy transition was less about infrastructure—and more about invisible connections? In this episode, Junior Mbangala introduces a quietly radical idea: the rhizome. Borrowed from philosophy, this root-like, messy, decentralised structure becomes a powerful lens to rethink energy systems. Not as neat grids or market mechanisms—but as webs of trust, knowledge, and social ties. 👣 From working-class neighbourhoods in Liège to sub-Saharan Africa, Junior uses social network analysis to map how energy communities actually function: Who participates? Who holds influence? And who gets left out, even when it all looks inclusive on paper? Forget the top-down diagrams. Junior invites us to see energy not as a service, but as a social system. One where: ✨ Knowledge spreads like a rumour 🔗 Participation relies on trust, not just access 🌱 Change starts in the margins—and travels sideways 💬 “Each one, teach one,” he says. “The rhizome helps us grow differently—but together.” 🧠 What you’ll hear: How network thinking reveals invisible power structures in energy communities Why the “community” in energy community needs to come first What Deleuze and Guattari have to do with just transition policies Why hope—yes, hope—is a form of energy, too 📍This episode isn’t about electrons. It’s about entanglements. And how, if we’re serious about justice, we need to start mapping the roots—not just building the tree. 🎧 Listen now. And maybe never think about “inclusion” the same way again. Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes straight from your inbox (?s=1) Reach out to Marine Cornelis via BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/marinenextenerg.bsky.socia) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinecornelis) Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on Patreon (https://patreon.com/Energethic) © Next Energy Consumer (https://www.nextenergyconsumer.eu/), 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the key to a sustainable future lies in the hands of the most vulnerable? Join host Marine Cornelis in this enlightening episode of Energ’Ethic - Climate Justice and Energy Transition, as she sits down with William Brent, a passionate climate solution advocate and entrepreneur, whose journey from media and entertainment to championing energy justice is nothing short of inspiring. Driven by his experiences in China, Brent reveals how he became a fervent advocate for energy access, focusing on renewable energy solutions tailored for the Global South. As Brent shares his insights, he sheds light on the systemic inequities entrenched in the energy sector, emphasizing the critical need for energy transition that prioritizes the most marginalized communities. Despite significant strides in providing basic electricity access to millions, he highlights the stark reality that many still lack modern energy solutions. Brent's critique of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 7, is thought-provoking; he argues that these goals often lead to 'access washing,' where superficial progress is celebrated while genuine modernization remains elusive. Throughout the conversation, the urgency of reforming energy policy becomes evident. Brent calls for a transformative shift in institutional mindsets, advocating for greater collaboration among development finance institutions, governments, and the private sector. He believes that only through collective action can we address energy poverty and ensure equitable energy access for all. With a focus on clean tech and smart grids, Brent envisions a future where renewable energy, community energy initiatives, and off-grid solutions play pivotal roles in the just transition we so desperately need. This episode is a clarion call for climate action, urging listeners to rethink the frameworks surrounding energy efficiency and decarbonisation. As Brent passionately articulates, the path to sustainability is not just about technology; it’s about people-centric solutions that empower communities and create green jobs. Join us to explore how we can collectively foster a future where public ownership of energy and frugal innovation pave the way for a truly just transition. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of energy justice and the vital role it plays in the energy transition. Tune in and be inspired by the stories and insights that illuminate the path toward a more equitable and sustainable world. Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes s=1">straight from your inbox Reach out to Marine Cornelis via app/profile/marinenextenerg. bsky. socia">BlueSky</a> or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www. linkedin. com/in/marinecornelis">LinkedIn Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on com/Energethic">Patreon © nextenergyconsumer. eu/">Next Energy Consumer, 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How can we ensure that the journey towards a sustainable future is inclusive for all? Join host Marine Cornelis as she delves into the heart of climate justice and the energy transition with Monica Vidal, a passionate advocate whose journey from environmental science student to leader at Can Europe is truly inspiring. In this enlightening episode of Energ’Ethic - Climate Justice and Energy Transition, Monica shares her pivotal experiences that shaped her commitment to promoting energy efficiency and tackling energy poverty through the innovative Build Better Lives campaign. As Monica discusses her work, she highlights the critical intersection of energy policy, housing, and social justice, emphasizing that a truly just transition cannot occur without addressing the housing crisis and energy access. She passionately advocates for ambitious EU directives that can pave the way for real-world solutions, showcasing how energy efficiency can transform lives and communities across Europe. With a focus on collaboration among social justice organizations, housing groups, and trade unions, Monica illustrates the power of collective action in driving meaningful change in the energy transition. Throughout the episode, listeners will gain insights into the challenges of implementing effective energy policies, the necessity of inclusive public participation, and the vital role that data and science play in shaping advocacy efforts. Monica’s approach to energy justice and sustainability reflects a commitment to not just decarbonisation, but to fostering a future where clean tech and renewable energy are accessible to everyone. She makes a compelling case for community energy initiatives and off-grid solutions that empower individuals and promote energy efficiency, all while creating green jobs and enhancing public ownership of energy. As the episode unfolds, Monica’s warmth and optimism shine through, reminding us that the path to a sustainable future is not just about technology, but about people. Her call to action urges listeners to engage in building better lives, emphasizing that understanding the complexities of energy efficiency and housing is crucial for everyone who cares about climate action and sustainability. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation and discover how you can be part of the movement towards a more equitable energy transition. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from a true changemaker in the field of energy justice. Join us for an episode that promises to inspire and empower you to take action in your own community! Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes s=1">straight from your inbox Reach out to Marine Cornelis via app/profile/marinenextenerg. bsky. socia">BlueSky</a> or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www. linkedin. com/in/marinecornelis">LinkedIn Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on com/Energethic">Patreon © nextenergyconsumer. eu/">Next Energy Consumer, 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the path to a sustainable future hinged not only on innovation but also on inclusivity? In this enlightening episode of Energ’Ethic, host Marine Cornelis reunites with Louise Sutherland, a prominent voice in Europe’s energy transition and managing principal at WRAP. Together, they delve into the EU's Fit for 55 framework, a pivotal step towards achieving ambitious climate targets. Louise shares her personal journey, illustrating how her commitment to energy justice has shaped her work, emphasizing the urgent need for policies that uplift vulnerable communities grappling with energy poverty. The conversation takes a compelling turn as they unpack the outcomes of New York Climate Week, revealing a global perspective on energy equity that transcends borders. Energy justice is not just about affordability; it encompasses ownership, control, and representation in energy decision-making. Louise and Marine explore how integrating social objectives into energy policy is critical for ensuring that no one is left behind in the energy transition. They discuss the necessity of fostering community energy initiatives, promoting public ownership of energy, and advancing off-grid solutions that empower local populations. As they reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the energy transition, the duo emphasizes the importance of learning from international experiences. They highlight innovative approaches like frugal innovation and smart grids that can drive decarbonisation while creating green jobs. The episode serves as a call to action for listeners to engage with the pressing issues surrounding energy access and sustainability, urging them to advocate for a just transition that prioritizes the needs of all citizens. Join us for this insightful discussion that not only sheds light on the intricacies of energy policy but also inspires hope and action towards a cleaner, fairer future. Discover how the principles of energy equity can guide us in shaping a resilient energy landscape that champions both environmental and social justice. Tune in and be part of the movement for a just energy future! Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes s=1">straight from your inbox Reach out to Marine Cornelis via app/profile/marinenextenerg. bsky. socia">BlueSky</a> or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www. linkedin. com/in/marinecornelis">LinkedIn Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on com/Energethic">Patreon © nextenergyconsumer. eu/">Next Energy Consumer, 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What ignites a lifelong passion for climate justice and energy transition? For Shana Gallagher, it was the haunting beauty of the ocean and the stark realization of how human actions can devastate marine ecosystems. Join host Marine Cornelis as she delves into the inspiring journey of Shana, the Dynamic Net Zero Engagement Manager at the British Standards Institution (BSI). Shana's transformation from political activism in the U. S. to a pivotal role in the private sector underscores the essential need for corporate engagement in achieving ambitious net-zero emissions targets. In this enlightening episode of Energ’Ethic - Climate Justice and Energy Transition, Shana shares her insights on the significance of ISO standards as credible benchmarks for climate action. Discover the groundbreaking work behind the world's first formal certifiable net zero standard, which serves as a vital tool for organizations navigating the complexities of the energy transition. As the conversation unfolds, Shana candidly addresses the pressing challenges of greenwashing, emphasizing the urgent need for clear guidelines that ensure accountability in corporate climate strategies. With the climate crisis accelerating, the role of businesses in fostering sustainability has never been more critical. Shana highlights the ISO net zero guidelines, offering organizations a roadmap to craft effective net zero strategies. This episode resonates with the core themes of energy justice and decarbonisation, illuminating how companies can contribute to a just transition while aligning with global climate goals. Shana’s work exemplifies the intersection of clean tech, renewable energy, and community energy initiatives, showcasing how innovative solutions can empower businesses to thrive in an evolving landscape. Listen in as we explore the vital connections between energy access, electrification, and the broader implications of energy policy on our planet's future. Shana’s unique perspective not only sheds light on the corporate side of climate action but also inspires hope through frugal innovation and the pursuit of green jobs. This episode of Energ’Ethic is a clarion call for all stakeholders—business leaders, policymakers, and individuals—to engage actively in the energy transition, ensuring that we leave a sustainable world for future generations. Tune in and be part of the change! Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes s=1">straight from your inbox Reach out to Marine Cornelis via app/profile/marinenextenerg. bsky. socia">BlueSky</a> or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www. linkedin. com/in/marinecornelis">LinkedIn Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on com/Energethic">Patreon © nextenergyconsumer. eu/">Next Energy Consumer, 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

🎧 Guest: Seda Orhan, Renewable Energy Programme Manager at Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe and board member at the Renewable Grids Initiative 🔎 Episode Summary: If the first time locals hear about your wind or solar project is when the diggers arrive, you’ve already lost. In this episode, Marine Cornelis is joined by Seda Orhan to discuss the invisible ingredient that makes or breaks renewable energy projects: trust. Seda unpacks CAN Europe’s latest report, Community Engagement and Fair Benefit Sharing of Renewable Energy Projects, which offers 14+1 concrete KPIs to help developers—and policymakers—move beyond box-ticking towards meaningful participation. Because here’s the thing: community engagement isn’t a brochure. It’s a conversation. And when it works, it’s magic. 🌱 Highlights: From resistance to resilience: Why fair benefit sharing is essential to earning a social licence—and how failing to build trust delays or even kills projects. What bad engagement looks like: Seda lays out the patterns: poor site choices, vague timelines, late-stage notifications, and empty “consultations.” The 14+1 checklist for fairness: Practical indicators—from local jobs to co-ownership—to assess whether a project genuinely benefits its host community. Italy vs Germany: What different regulatory approaches reveal about who gets heard—and who gets sidelined. Why co-ownership matters: The transformative power of giving communities not just a voice, but a stake. 🛠️ Resource spotlight: 📄 Community Engagement and Fair Benefit Sharing of Renewable Energy Projects – CAN Europe Report (https://caneurope.org/content/uploads/2025/04/CANE-April-2025_Community-Engagement-and-Benefit-Sharing.pdf) 🗣️ Like what you hear? Share the episode, rate the podcast, and follow us on LinkedIn for more unfiltered conversations about the future of energy. Energ' Ethic goes out every other week. Keep up to date with new episodes straight from your inbox (?s=1) Reach out to Marine Cornelis via BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/marinenextenerg.bsky.socia) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinecornelis) Music: I Need You Here - Kamarius Edition: Podcast Media Factory  Support Energ'Ethic on Patreon (https://patreon.com/Energethic) © Next Energy Consumer (https://www.nextenergyconsumer.eu/), 2025 Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.