In this video, we travel to Villarrobledo in Spain’s Mancha Júcar-Centro region to learn how local actors are working together to establish energy communities as a tool for rural development and climate action.
We hear from Ángel Perea, Councillor for Local Development of the Municipality of Villarrobledo, and Agustín López, Manager of the Rural Development Group ADI Mancha Júcar-Centro, who share their vision and on-the-ground experience.
“We clearly see this as an opportunity to make our region more competitive, to access cheaper energy that improves the competitiveness of our businesses and helps reduce electricity bills for our citizens.”
Agustín López
Key activities in the region include:
- Supporting the creation of energy communities across nine municipalities:
Since December 2023, ADI Mancha Júcar-Centro has led efforts through a dedicated community transformation office, with eight energy communities already established and more underway. - Providing training and information:
The association, in cooperation with POWER-E-COM’s spanish project partner Escan s.l., organises local workshops and capacity-building sessions to explain how energy communities work, how to join or form one, and what benefits they offer to households and small businesses. - Collaborating with municipalities:
The Municipality of Villarrobledo plays an active role by offering space and institutional support, making it easier for communities to organise, operate, and grow. Their engagement ensures long-term accessibility and local impact. - Promoting sustainability and energy justice:
Beyond energy cost savings and improved competitiveness, the region sees energy communities as a way to empower citizens, reduce emissions, and contribute to climate resilience in rural areas.
📺 Watch the full video to see how local cooperation is driving the energy transition in rural Spain!