Cultural hubs as drivers of sustainable energy districts

How can social and cultural meeting places become engines of the energy transition? Co-PED – Community-based cultural and social centres as incubators for Positive Energy Districts – is a European research project that explores this very question. By establishing energy communities around cultural and civic centers in eight urban, peri-urban, and rural contexts across Europe, the project aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable energy systems.

As a research partner, RISE contributes with method development, energy systems expertise, and analysis of both technical and social impacts in these contexts. We collaborate closely with the eight participating cultural hubs – known as Urban Living Labs – supporting their development and how their facilities can be transformed into positive energy assets for their communities.

The eight cultural centers participating in Co-PED are:

• 1. Ifö Center – Bromölla, Sweden
• 2. La Friche La Belle de Mai – Marseille, France
• 3. BASIS Vinschgau Venosta – Silandro, Italy
• 4. Die Bäckerei Kulturbackstube – Innsbruck, Austria
• 5. Bakelit Multi Art Center – Budapest, Hungary
• 6. Bartók Quarter – Budapest, Hungary
• 7. Hart van Zuid – Rotterdam, Netherlands
• 8. Green Kommon – Plaine Commune (north of Paris), France

The project combines technological, social, and economic innovation with a strong focus on energy and climate justice. Through inclusive processes, where marginalized groups are also given a voice, Co-PED aims to create scalable, adaptable solutions for diverse local contexts across Europe.