Project description
La Corriente is a non-profit energy cooperative based in Madrid, Spain that supplies 100% renewable electricity while promoting citizen participation in the energy transition. Building on a decade of experience, the cooperative is now expanding its activities to develop collective renewable energy projects, particularly by using industrial rooftops in densely populated areas.
- Challenges addressed
It addresses challenges such as limited organisational capacity, financial risks and the complexity of developing collective infrastructures in urban environments. By empowering its members, La Corriente contributes to a more decentralised and equitable energy system.
- Technology
The project integrates solar energy, storage and battery systems, flexible household devices, and energy efficiency solutions.
- Support received under CEAH
With CEAH technical assistance, the initiative is exploring new ownership and participation models, strengthening its technical capacity and validating investment strategies for large-scale projects.
1. CAPEX/OPEX Calculation Tool
This activity addresses the need for a standardised approach to estimating investment and operational costs for PV and BESS projects. It delivers a practical tool enabling the cooperative to model financial requirements across different project scales and build internal capacity to manage financial projections. Key deliverables include:- A PV+BESS CAPEX/OPEX Excel Calculator, incorporating automated cost calculations, market-based pricing, and configurable system parameters
- A Training Summary, including minutes and documentation of the capacity-building session
2. Definition of the Business Model and Strategic Objectives
Establishes a clear business model aligned with the cooperative’s long-term goals, defining operational logic, strategic priorities, and performance indicators. It ensures alignment between technical design and commercial strategy through collaborative development. Key deliverables include:- A Pilot Business Model Identification, outlining operational structure, strategic objectives (e.g. price stability, social impact), and defined KPIs
- A Characterisation of the Pilot Business Model, including expert inputs, analysis, and consolidated recommendations
3. Financial Model and Scenarios
This activity develops a robust financial model to assess the viability of different pilot options, incorporating key assumptions, financial indicators, and scenario analysis. It supports informed decision-making and selection of the most viable business case. Key deliverables include:- Financial Model and Scenario Analysis, including metrics such as IRR, NPV, payback, financing needs, and impact on member bills, alongside comparison of alternative scenarios
4. Fundraising Strategy
This activity identifies and evaluates funding opportunities and defines a financing strategy to support the selected pilot. It ensures a structured and realistic approach to securing financial resources. Key deliverables include:- A Funding Options and Fundraising Strategy, including a matrix of funding sources, eligibility criteria, timelines, risks, and a recommended financing mix for implementation
More information on the initiative can be found here on their website: Inicio - Sociedad Cooperativa eléctrica La Corriente