Project description
CERS FERVORES, based in Pont Canavese, Italy, is a solidarity-based renewable energy community rooted in the mountain territories of the Canavese area. The initiative builds on the work initiated by the Unione Montana Valli Orco e Soana and is now developed within the Green Community “Sinergie in Canavese”, bringing together municipalities, mountain unions, public bodies, local enterprises, third-sector organisations and citizens around a shared territorial energy transition strategy.
Rather than operating as a single-site energy community, FERVORES is conceived as a territorial platform for decentralised renewable energy sharing across several primary substations and mountain municipalities. Its model combines renewable energy production, local self-consumption and reinvestment of benefits into social and community-oriented objectives, with particular attention to vulnerable households, local public services and the long-term resilience of mountain areas.
- Challenges addressed
It addresses challenges related to coordinating multiple configurations, ensuring financial sustainability and maintaining inclusive participation across dispersed communities. The project demonstrates a scalable approach to regional energy community development.
Its added value lies in the strong role played by local public authorities. The Unione Montana and participating municipalities act as territorial anchors, helping to aggregate demand, identify public and private assets, mobilise citizens and local organisations, and ensure that the energy community remains aligned with broader local development and social cohesion objectives.
- Technology
The initiative integrates renewable electricity generation, including hydropower and photovoltaic opportunities, with energy efficiency solutions, storage and battery systems, district heating, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and building renovation measures. These technologies are considered not only as technical assets, but as part of a wider local development strategy for mountain territories.
- Support received under CEAH
With CEAH technical assistance, the initiative is working on scaling its technical, financial and operational model, including system sizing, data management and engagement strategies.
1. Initial Technical Review and Prioritisation of Activation Opportunities
Clarifies the current status of the initiative and identifies priority opportunities for short-term activation, focusing on key technical and operational bottlenecks. Key deliverables include:- An Initial Technical Note, summarising project status, bottlenecks, and priority activation opportunities
2. Prosumer Scouting and Activation Strategy Support
Supports the identification and screening of potential prosumers and assets, providing practical guidance for early implementation decisions. Key deliverables include:- A Practical Guidance Note, outlining screening criteria and recommendations for prosumer identification and activation
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Pilot Outreach Support
This activity strengthens stakeholder mobilisation through targeted engagement and a pilot outreach action adapted to the local context. Key deliverables include:- A Stakeholder Engagement Note, identifying target groups and outreach approaches
- Supporting Outreach Materials, including basic communication tools for engagement activities
4. Business Planning and Development
Assesses financial viability and supports the development of a structured business plan based on alternative scenarios and identified needs. Key deliverables include:- A Business Plan, including financial scenarios, assumptions, and development pathways
5. Mapping of Funding Opportunities
Identifies relevant funding sources to support project development and align financial strategy with investment needs. Key deliverables include:- A Funding Opportunities List, identifying suitable funding channels and key criteria
More information on the initiative can be found here on their website: COMUNITÀ ENERGETICA RINNOVABILE E SOLIDALE “CERS FERVORES”