The rise of self-consumption and energy communities: a revolution in progress

The energy transition is no longer a distant goal but an opportunity for companies and self-employed individuals. In this context, self-consumption and energy communities are gaining ground as viable solutions to reduce costs, promote sustainability, and meet growing regulatory demands. But how can businesses take advantage of this energy revolution for their benefit?

Self-Consumption: A Path to Energy Independence

Self-consumption, particularly through photovoltaic solar energy, has experienced exponential growth in recent years. This is largely due to the reduction in the cost of solar panels, tax incentives, and public subsidies. Furthermore, recent Spanish regulations now allow shared self-consumption, making it even more attractive for homeowners’ associations and industrial parks.

Main advantages of self-consumption for businesses:

  • Reduction of energy costs.
  • Greater stability against energy price volatility.
  • Improvement of corporate image by adopting renewable sources.

The Economic Office of Galicia acts as a one-stop shop to guide businesses in implementing self-consumption systems. From the initial evaluation to the processing of subsidies, the goal is to provide guidance and simplify the process for SMEs, maximizing their benefits.

Energy Communities: Collaboration Towards a Sustainable Future

Another key concept revolutionizing the energy landscape is energy communities. These associations allow businesses, freelancers, and individuals to join forces to generate, manage, and consume energy collectively.

The model offers multiple benefits:

  • Economic efficiency: Sharing installation and operation costs reduces initial investment.
  • Sustainability: Encourages the use of renewables and the circular economy.
  • Autonomy: Reduces dependence on large energy providers.

In Galicia, such initiatives are already underway, with projects that integrate local businesses, public administrations, and citizens. Furthermore, energy communities can be key to revitalizing rural areas, promoting sustainable development that fosters the local economy.

New Opportunities Thanks to Public Subsidies

Government and European support have been crucial in consolidating these initiatives. Spain’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan, supported by Next Generation EU funds, includes specific lines to finance self-consumption and energy community projects.

Highlighted subsidies:

  • Subsidies for the installation of photovoltaic solar energy in businesses.
  • Funding for pilot projects of energy communities.
  • Tax incentives for the implementation of energy storage solutions.

The Economic Office of Galicia positions itself as an ally to access these subsidies, guiding and supporting businesses to meet the requirements and optimize their investment.

The Challenge of Regulation and Technology

While the opportunities are vast, there are also challenges. Regulations on self-consumption and energy communities are still evolving, which can create uncertainty for those wishing to take the step. Additionally, the implementation of advanced technologies, such as storage systems or energy management platforms, requires highly specialized knowledge.

In this context, having professional and up-to-date advice becomes essential. The Economic Office of Galicia offers personalized guidance to overcome these challenges and maximize the benefits of these solutions.

 

Self-consumption and energy communities are not just trends but powerful tools to transform the business energy model. With the right support, these initiatives can reduce costs, boost sustainability, and position companies at the forefront of the energy transition.

In Galicia, the combination of regulatory opportunities, economic incentives, and professional advice makes this the ideal time to take the leap toward a more efficient and renewable future. Request advice from the Economic Office of Galicia.