The REGIO1st Planning Framework consists of eight stages, accompanied by various tools, in order to enable planners streamline their energy planning process, conduct comprehensive analyses, and make informed decisions aligned with the EE1st principle.
Planners are encouraged to follow the framework in a sequential manner, from preparation to implementation, monitoring, and review.
Click on the diagram to navigate through the Regio1st Planning Framework's 8 stages.
Stage 1 focuses on laying the groundwork for developing an effective regional energy plan. It involves determining the geographical area and scope of the planning, defining roles and responsibilities, identifying existing regional energy plans, and starting the process for developing the plan.
The first step is identifying the geographical area that the regional energy plan intends to cover. This may include, for instance, a specific area of interest (e.g. covering a group of municipalities) or the entire region. Subsequently, the scope of the plan needs to be defined, for instance the plan may encompass selected sectors and specific energy sources (electricity, gas, heat etc.), or all key sectors and energy sources. Key sectors to consider in energy planning include:
Buildings, equipment & facilities: Residential, commercial and municipal/institutional buildings and facilities. Manufacturing and construction industries can be considered as well.
Transport: Transportation within the regional/local authority boundary disaggregated by mode (road, rail, waterborne navigation and off-road) and by fleet type (municipal, public private and commercial transport).
Energy Supply: Facilities for the generation of energy (e.g. electricity, CHP and heat/cold production plants) within the regional/local authority boundaries.
Other non - energy related: Agriculture/forestry/fisheries, waste management, wastewater management and other non-energy related sectors.
A clear definition of the geographical area and scope of planning will help ensure the plan's relevance and effectiveness.
The effective coordination and collaboration of the planning team is essential for an effective process. In this step, planners should identify key departments within the region, as well as key stakeholders (e.g., regional energy agencies), that will actively contribute throughout the regional planning process and define their roles and responsibilities in the planning process. It is important to ensure that all stakeholders that can promote the Energy Efficiency First principle and actively support the design and implementation of energy efficiency measures are identified and are actively engaged in the energy planning process.
Establishing appropriate structures that support the planning process is also good practice, such as a steering committee or working group with a defined mandate to undertake specific tasks and activities. Planners should consider a working group that aims to promote and better integrate the Efficiency First principle in the planning process.
Roles and Responsibilities Matrix
This Excel tool can assist planners in determining and assigning roles and responsibilities, ensuring that all necessary tasks are covered and that the process is well-coordinated and efficient. The tool can also help define the role and responsibilities of stakeholders actively involved in the planning process, as well as produce a visual matrix that facilitates communication and collaboration among the planning team members.
Roles and Responsibilities Matrix Download
Additional resources
Before embarking on the creation of a new regional energy plan, existing plans and strategies in the region should be considered. This should include strategies and plans that focus on sustainable energy, infrastructure development, transport, waste and other relevant urban and rural activities.
This review will help identify potential synergies, overlaps, and gaps in the current planning landscape and inform the development of a new regional energy plan (or enable the more effective revision of an existing one). The successes and challenges of previous planning efforts should also be considered, as these can provide valuable insights and lessons learned for the development of the new plan.
Once the groundwork has been laid, the framework for developing the regional energy plan needs to be set up. In particular, the planning process needs to be established, taking into consideration the planning and decision-making processes of the regional authority. The timeline, budget, and resources for developing the plan need to be determined.
Moreover, the technical capacity of the region needs to be assessed along with whether there is a need to commission part of the work to an external party (consultancy, regional energy agency etc.). Emphasis should be given on ensuring that there is sufficient technical capacity in design and implementing energy efficiency measures, in order to be able to effectively apply the Energy Efficiency First principle. If part of the work needs to be outsourced, the regional authority’s relevant procurement process needs to be followed (which also defines what is being sub-contracted and why) and approvals need to be obtained from the relevant competent structure (often the regional council). The necessary resources need to be earmarked and properly allocated. Resources may include funds, staff, and access to technical expertise and data.
Overall Stage material
A successful planning process requires effective coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders, including regional authorities, local governments, utilities, businesses, and community organizations. This stage outlines the stakeholder engagement process, including identifying key stakeholders and developing a stakeholder engagement plan.
In this step, planners should identify key stakeholders to be involved in the regional energy planning process. Stakeholders can include, amongst other, energy agencies, utilities, businesses, industry, local authorities, community organizations, environmental groups, energy experts, and citizens. In any case, it is important to ensure that all key stakeholders that can promote and facilitate the incorporation of the Energy Efficiency First principle are identified. Identifying stakeholders and understanding their priorities, interests, strengths, limitations, influence, and potential impact is essential for ensuring that the regional energy plan addresses local and regional needs and empowers all relevant parties to actively contribute to the regions just energy transition.
To achieve this, planners can conduct stakeholder mapping exercises/analysis, hold informal meetings, or organize workshops or focus group discussions. This will help develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse perspectives, needs and expectations of the stakeholders involved in the planning process, whilst at the same time enable the establishment of a participatory energy planning process.
Stakeholder Identification and Analysis Tool
This Excel template can help planners systematically identify and analyse key stakeholders within the regional energy planning process. The template can be used to collate stakeholder names, roles, interests, relevance, influence, and potential impact in the energy transition. This tool can support planners in better understanding and engaging stakeholders.
Stakeholder Identification and Analysis Tool Download
Additional resources
Once key stakeholders have been identified and their relevance, influence and impact are understood, planners should develop a stakeholder engagement plan. This plan should outline how stakeholders will be involved throughout the planning process, as well as the tools that will be used and the timing and frequency of engagement activities. In particular, the stakeholder engagement plan should be designed to:
- Ensure the transparent, inclusive, and meaningful participation of all relevant stakeholders, including marginalized and underrepresented groups
- Facilitate an open and constructive dialogue among stakeholders, fostering trust and cooperation
- Provide opportunities for stakeholders to influence decision-making and shape the regional energy plan
- Facilitate the incorporation of the Energy Efficiency First principle in the regional energy plan
- Communicate the progress and outcomes of the planning process to stakeholders, maintaining their interest and support throughout the planning but also the implementation phase.
Some possible engagement methods include workshops, focus groups, public consultations, surveys, online platforms, and social media. The choice of method will depend on the specific context, objectives, and resources available for the planning process.
Stakeholder Engagement Plan Template
This template can guide planners in developing a comprehensive stakeholder engagement plan that outlines the objectives, methods, timelines, and resources required for engaging stakeholders throughout the planning process. The template can incorporate stakeholder analysis, and the development of communication strategies, engagement activities, and evaluation measures, ensuring that stakeholder engagement efforts are well-planned and effective. The outcomes emerged by the use of the Stakeholder Identification and Analysis Tool (step 2.1) are facilitated to feed parts of this template as well.
Stakeholder Engagement Plan Template Download
Additional resources
- URBACT Engaging Stakeholders
- COMPILE Toolkit: Stakeholder Engagement Guide
- UNEP's Stakeholder Engagement Handbook
- REScoop Guide to engage and manage stakeholders
- Guide for consultations to shape the future Interreg - Toolkit
Best practicies/Success stories
Overall Stage material
This stage focuses on reviewing and establishing energy objectives and targets that align with national, regional and local visions, as well as engaging stakeholders to ensure a shared and well-informed approach.
In this step, planners should review relevant national energy policies, strategies, and targets. Such plans may include objectives related to greenhouse gas emissions reductions, renewable energy deployment, energy efficiency improvements, transport infrastructure development and energy security, among others.
Understanding the national context and national priorities will help ensure that the regional energy plan aligns with broader policy frameworks.
National and Regional Targets Comparison Template
This Excel template can help planners systematically compare their regional energy targets with EU, national and other objectives, such as the European Union's energy and climate goals. The template includes columns for each target type (e.g., greenhouse gas emissions reduction, renewable energy share, energy efficiency) and rows for filling in national, regional, and other targets, enabling planners to identify deviations and areas for review.
National and Regional Targets Comparison Template Download
In addition to national targets, planners should examine existing regional and local visions, strategies, and targets for energy, as well as for other relevant policy areas. For instance, planners could review, amongst other, regional development plans, energy master plans, urban mobility plans, regional spatial/territorial plans, waste management plans and other relevant strategic documents that affect energy policy.
Evaluating existing regional and local targets, strategies and plans will help identify synergies, gaps, and potential conflicts at a regional level as well as between different levels of governance. This will ensure that the regional energy plan is consistent with and builds upon existing planning efforts.
National and Regional Targets Comparison Template
This Excel template can help planners systematically compare their regional energy targets with EU, national and other objectives, such as the European Union's energy and climate goals. The template includes columns for each target type (e.g., greenhouse gas emissions reduction, renewable energy share, energy efficiency) and rows for filling in national, regional, and other targets, enabling planners to identify deviations and areas for review.
National and Regional Targets Comparison Template Download
In this step, the new/revised regional objectives, priorities and targets need to be defined, considering existing national regional and local targets and strategies. These should also consider economic development, long-term energy independence, environmental protection, improvement of quality of life and of health. Setting targets guided by the Energy Efficiency First principle (per sector) is highly recommended to ensure that the plan meets EU national, regional and local objectives and ambitions, whilst prioritizing energy efficiency. In addition, appropriate indicators need to be identified to better define set objectives.
Additional resources
Once national, regional, and local visions, targets, strategies, and plans have been reviewed, planners should engage with stakeholders to discuss these and their implication on the regional energy plan. The dialogue should aim to:
- Identify potential barriers and opportunities for achieving established goals in order to consider them further in the regional plan
- Ensure that regional needs and stakeholder concerns are adequately reflected in the regional plan and sufficiently considered in new/revised objectives and targets
- Build consensus on the regional energy vision, objectives, and targets
- Promote the Energy Efficiency First principle and how its application can be facilitated
- Rank the importance of objectives to build consensus on priorities Stakeholder engagement may take the form of workshops, meetings, or online consultations, depending on the resources available and the preferences of the stakeholders involved.
Stakeholder engagement may take the form of workshops, meetings, or online consultations, depending on the resources available and the preferences of the stakeholders involved.
Participatory Priorities Ranking Tool
This tool can facilitate planners rank priorities using a collaborative process. It provides a systematic approach for gathering inputs and perspectives from a diverse group of stakeholders, such as community members, experts, or decision-makers, and collectively determining the relative importance / urgency of different options / measures. By actively involving stakeholders, a more inclusive and representative prioritization process is ensured, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.
Participatory Priorities Ranking Tool Download
Additional resources
- Co-creation for policy: Participatory methodologies to structure multi-stakeholder policymaking processes
- Urb Cultural Planning Participatory design guide
- URBACT Engaging Stakeholders
Best practicies/Success stories
Overall Stage material
This stage involves gathering and analysing data on the existing energy system, including energy consumption patterns, infrastructure, and other key aspects.
In this step, planners should gather data to understand the current regional energy system. High quality data are considered to be of utmost importance for the implementation of the Energy Efficiency First principle since:
The better the data collected, the more targeted and impactful energy efficiency measures can be.
Poor or incomplete data can lead to missed efficiency opportunities and unnecessary investments in energy infrastructure.
Comprehensive and good quality data allow for comparing efficiency investments with supply-side alternatives.
The data may include quantitative information on regional energy consumption per sector and energy source, energy production and renewable energy production. Data sources may include regional and national statistical institutes/offices, utilities, industry reports, technical reports and academic publications.
Comprehensive data are essential for developing a baseline energy inventory, understanding the current regional energy system and setting realistic targets in the regional energy plan. High-quality data can also support decision making regarding Energy Efficiency First and help identify the potential of energy efficiency measures.
Energy Inventory Data Collection Template
This Excel template can help planners systematically collect and organize relevant energy data, such as energy production and consumption, as well as key infrastructure information (e.g. existing renewable energy production capacity). It can also act as a checklist that helps planners identify key sectors and energy sources to collect data for. Finally, it can help planners subsequently develop a Greenhouse Gas inventory for the region.
Energy Inventory Data Collection Template Download
Additional resources
Once the necessary data has been collected, planners should analyse the energy consumption data by sector, in order to derive consumption patterns in different sectors, especially the residential, commercial, and transport sector. The analysis can be supported through the development of an Energy Inventory. The analysis should consider factors such as energy demand, energy intensity, and the types of energy sources used in each sector.
Understanding sector-specific energy consumption patterns will help planners identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency, switch fuels, and implement other demand-side interventions. The analysis and the development of an Energy Inventory can support the application of the Energy Efficiency First principle since:
Planners need to understand the current situation to apply the Energy Efficiency First principle effectively.
Sector-specific and disaggregated data help identify where energy efficiency measures can have the most impact.
An energy inventory is not just a reporting tool—it helps planners detect inefficiencies and opportunities for cost-effective energy savings before considering new energy production options.
Historical and comparative data help planners track which efficiency strategies work best and ensure that resources are directed toward proven, cost-effective measures.
In addition to analysing energy consumption, planners should evaluate the existing energy infrastructure in the region. This should consider the age, condition, capacity, and efficiency of energy production, distribution, and storage facilities, as well as the availability and accessibility of renewable energy resources.
This assessment will help planners identify infrastructure-related constraints and opportunities to include in the regional energy plan, such as the development of new renewable energy projects. However such new projects should only be considered after having fully considered energy efficiency investments and their impact.
Understanding how much renewable energy is currently produced helps determine whether efficiency measures can reduce the need for additional generation, avoiding unnecessary supply expansions.
Once a thorough understanding of the current regional energy system has been established, planners should discuss the findings with stakeholders. This may involve organizing workshops, meetings, or other engagement activities to present the data and analysis and gather feedback and insight from stakeholders.
This step is important for validating the information, ensuring that all relevant aspects have been considered, and building consensus on the key challenges and opportunities of the regional energy system. Stakeholder engagement activities should clearly communicate the authorities’ vision to incorporate the Energy Efficiency First principle in energy planning, ensuring stakeholders buy-in and alignment in prioritising energy efficiency.
Additional resources
Overall Stage material
This stage involves assessing the potential of various energy options and identifying the least cost – greatest net benefits combinations of solutions, while considering wider impacts and uncertainties.
In this step, planners should evaluate the potential uptake and impact of energy efficiency solutions. This should include identifying opportunities for energy savings and energy efficiency improvements across all relevant sectors, such as buildings, transportation, and industry, before considering energy supply-side alternatives.
Planners should consider factors such as cost-effectiveness, technical feasibility, and potential for energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions reductions, along with the broader socio-economic and environmental co-benefits of energy efficiency measures.
This step is key in properly incorporating the Energy Efficiency First Principle in energy planning, by ensuring that the maximum possible uptake of energy efficiency solutions is planned.
Technology Catalogue Tool
The Technology Catalogue Tool can help planners assess the potential of various supply-side and demand-side solutions in their region, by providing indicative information on renewable energy sources, regional energy generation solutions, as well as end-use energy efficiency solutions for different sectors. More specifically, the tool can help planners understand the cost-effectiveness of various energy technologies and solutions, including average costs (capital, operational and maintenance costs, etc.), efficiencies and emission intensities for the supply side, as well as potential energy and cost savings for energy efficiency solutions. As such, the tool allows planners to select and compare different energy technologies and solutions based on the region's specific needs and objectives.
Technology Catalogue Tool Download
Additional resources
- Repository of short-term energy saving actions by local authorities in Europe
- Toolkit on emergency energy saving measures
- Top Energy Saving Inventions and Innovations
- World energy perspective: Energy efficiency technologies
- IEA Energy Efficiency 2023
- Energy Efficiency in Transport
- Clean and energy efficient vehicles
- Energy efficiency in buildings: greater focus on cost-effectiveness still needed
- SETIS - SET Plan information system
- De-risking Energy Efficiency Platform (DEEP)
- European Product Registry for Energy Labelling
Best practicies/Success stories
- RenoBooster, triggering a building renovation wave in Vienna
- FEBUS, a success story of fuel cell buses deployment
- District heating as key enabler for climate neutrality in Gothenburg
- Mur|Mur : Retrofitting private buildings to reduce energy consumption
- Energy efficiency interventions for public buildings and lighting systems
- Thermal Refurbishment of a Municipal Polyclinic and a Pediatrics department in the Town of Voznesensk
- Modernization of the street lighting system in Polack
In addition to energy efficiency solutions, planners should also evaluate the potential of available renewable energy resources in the region. This may include solar, wind, biomass, hydro, and geothermal resources, among others.
Renewable energy should be considered as an option to complement energy efficiency measures, and not as the driver of the energy transition. When considering renewable energy actions, planners should consider factors such as technical feasibility, environmental impact and potential for regional economic development. This assessment will help identify the most promising renewable energy options to incorporate in the regional energy plan.
Technology Catalogue Tool
The Technology Catalogue Tool can help planners assess the potential of various supply-side and demand-side solutions in their region, by providing indicative information on renewable energy sources, regional energy generation solutions, as well as end-use energy efficiency solutions for different sectors. More specifically, the tool can help planners understand the cost-effectiveness of various energy technologies and solutions, including average costs (capital, operational and maintenance costs, etc.), efficiencies and emission intensities for the supply side, as well as potential energy and cost savings for energy efficiency solutions. As such, the tool allows planners to select and compare different energy technologies and solutions based on the region's specific needs and objectives.
Technology Catalogue Tool Download
Additional resources
- EC Renewable energy statistics
- European Environment Agency (EEA) Renewable energy repository
- IRENA Renewable potential assessment
Best practicies/Success stories
- Win-win Renewables: Success stories for nature and citizens in Europe
- Renewable Energy Success Stories from Europe
- Pilot Roof PV Installations and Energy Storage Systems in 3 Social Buildings for Energy Poverty Mitigation in the City of Plovdiv
- Plantation of Willow for Biomass Production and Modernization of the Street Lighting System in Festelita
- Solar energy in Artik and Aparan
Before conducting the cost-benefit analysis (CBA), planners should consult with stakeholders to agree on the modelling approaches and scenarios to be used. This may involve discussing appropriate analytical tools, determining key assumptions, and defining various future scenarios, such as business-as-usual, and energy efficiency-focused scenarios. Early agreement on modelling parameters and key assumptions ensures that energy efficiency measures are properly accounted for and compared fairly with supply-side options.
This step offers the opportunity to communicate the benefits of incorporating the Energy Efficiency First principle in energy planning, properly considering Energy Efficiency First when modelling future scenarios and ensuring stakeholders buy-in.
Furthermore, stakeholders should be given the opportunity at this stage to provide data and evidence to support the cost-benefit analysis. Engaging stakeholders in this step will help ensure the transparency and credibility of the analysis.
With the modelling approaches and scenarios agreed upon, planners should conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis. This should involve modelling the future energy system under different scenarios, taking into account the potential of renewable energy resources, energy efficiency solutions, and other relevant factors. The analysis should also consider both direct costs, such as capital and operating costs of the solutions, and indirect costs including externalities and system integration costs.
This step helps identify the most cost-effective mix of measures to guide energy planning.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool
The Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool can help planners assess the costs, effectiveness and to an extent the benefits (e.g., energy cost savings) of different energy solutions for their region. This tool can enable planners compare various energy options and identify those that provide the greatest net benefits for the region. More specifically:
- The user inputs key variables, such as technology costs and energy prices.
- The tool produces outputs, including the costs, energy savings and energy cost savings of different energy solutions.
The tool can also help planners assess the sensitivity of the analysis, to uncertainties, by changing key inputs variables. This can help planners identify the most robust and resilient energy solutions under different circumstances.
Moreover, the Social Cost-Benefit Analysis tool (SCBA) was developed to quantify the implementation of different types of policies promoting energy efficiency. The tool aims at understanding regional decision processes and at validating the framework to customize it for further replication in other EU regions. Additionally, the SCBA tool aims to help the regions structure their regional decision-making processes in a way that leads to informed decisions where the EE1st principle is considered.
SCBA is a structured tool designed to quantify social impacts that might not be considered when quantifying multiple impacts resulting from the implementation of different policies. The tool aids regions and their planners to select the most optimal policy option considering not only economic factors, but social ones too. It provides a simplified way for regions and planners to consider all the multiple impacts that might arise when implementing policies promoting energy efficiency. This tool allows the comparison between an original CBA, where only economic factors are considered, and a social CBA, where also other social factors are considered.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool Download
Social Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool Download
Additional resources
- EU Guide to Cost-benefit Analysis of Investment Projects
- Towards a decarbonised and climate-resilient EU energy infrastructure: recommendations on an energy system-wide cost-benefit analysis
- World Bank guide for Cost-effectiveness Analysis
- TABULA
- Hotmaps-The open source mapping and planning tools for heating and cooling
In addition to direct and indirect costs, a cost-benefit analysis should be performed to also account for benefits and wider impacts, such as employment generation, local economic development, environmental benefits (e.g. improvements in air quality), social benefits, public health benefits, and opportunity costs.
Monetising benefits and wider impacts will help planners capture the maximum value of different energy options and inform decision-making. When needed, planners should draw on established external methodologies and data sources, such as social cost of carbon estimates, health impact assessment tools, and employment multipliers, to ensure consistency and credibility regarding the monetisation of wider impacts.
This step helps identify the most environmentally, and socially beneficial mix of measures to guide energy planning.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool
The Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool can help planners assess the costs, effectiveness and to an extent the benefits (e.g., energy cost savings) of different energy solutions for their region. This tool can enable planners compare various energy options and identify those that provide the greatest net benefits for the region. More specifically:
- The user inputs key variables, such as technology costs and energy prices.
- The tool produces outputs, including the costs, energy savings and energy cost savings of different energy solutions.
The tool can also help planners assess the sensitivity of the analysis, to uncertainties, by changing key inputs variables. This can help planners identify the most robust and resilient energy solutions under different circumstances.
Moreover, the Social Cost-Benefit Analysis tool (SCBA) was developed to quantify the implementation of different types of policies promoting energy efficiency. The tool aims at understanding regional decision processes and at validating the framework to customize it for further replication in other EU regions. Additionally, the SCBA tool aims to help the regions structure their regional decision-making processes in a way that leads to informed decisions where the EE1st principle is considered.
SCBA is a structured tool designed to quantify social impacts that might not be considered when quantifying multiple impacts resulting from the implementation of different policies. The tool aids regions and their planners to select the most optimal policy option considering not only economic factors, but social ones too. It provides a simplified way for regions and planners to consider all the multiple impacts that might arise when implementing policies promoting energy efficiency. This tool allows the comparison between an original CBA, where only economic factors are considered, and a social CBA, where also other social factors are considered.
Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool Download
Social Cost-Benefit Analysis Tool Download
Additional resources
In this step, the analysis and results of the previous steps are further considered and a cost-benefit analysis is undertaken. By comparing the costs and benefits of different options, planners should identify the least cost – greatest net benefits combinations of renewable energy resources and energy efficiency solutions that can achieve the region's energy objectives and targets. Planners should therefore be able to identify the most economically, environmentally, and socially optimal mix of measures to guide energy planning.
Finally, planners should assess the sensitivity of the cost-benefit analysis to uncertainties, such as changes in technology costs, energy prices, and policy frameworks.
The sensitivity analysis should test the performance of energy efficiency measures under different conditionsand future scenarios. This will help planners understand the robustness of the analysis and identify potential risks and opportunities associated with different energy options, and design more resilient strategies.
This stage focuses on evaluating the real-world feasibility of the optimal energy solutions identified and ensuring that planning outcomes are not only cost-effective, but also feasible and equitable in practice. Applying the Energy Efficiency First principle at this stage means closely examining how energy efficiency measures can offer more inclusive and locally beneficial outcomes.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) Tool (Excel)
This Excel tool serves as a valuable aid for energy planners by facilitating the prioritization of various energy options and ultimately supporting the decision-making process. The tool enables planners and stakeholders to derive aggregated scores and rankings, thus identifying the most feasible energy options for the region. In particular, it allows the selection of criteria and the assignment of weights to these criteria, encompassing factors such as environmental sustainability, social equity and economic feasibility. Stakeholders and/or planners can then assign scores to the selected criteria for each solution, aiding in a qualitative assessment, whilst the tool also assists decision-makers in quantifying qualitative impacts when evaluating solutions. Subsequently, it calculates scores to provide a quantitative assessment of impacts, enabling more informed decision-making.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) Tool Download
Planners should evaluate the distributional impacts of the energy solutions across different groups within the region, such as residents, businesses, and vulnerable populations. This assessment should consider factors such as energy access, affordability, and potential job creation or displacement. Identifying potential inequalities will help ensure that the regional energy plan addresses these and promotes social equity.
Overall, this step helps planners understand and address distributional impacts and ensure that the energy transition is inclusive, socially just, and broadly supported by the community, strengthening the legitimacy and resilience of the regional energy plan.
Additional resources
Planners should assess the availability and maturity of supply chains for the proposed energy technologies and solutions. This includes evaluating the local and regional availability of necessary equipment, materials, and services, as well as the degree of technological maturity and market readiness.
An understanding of the supply chain landscape will help planners identify potential bottlenecks, risks, and opportunities, and inform the selection and prioritization of energy options. Eventually, this insight should support more realistic and phased implementation strategies, ensuring that selected solutions are not only cost-effective but also delivered within planned timelines.
Additional resources
In addition to supply chain considerations, planners should assess the existing and future workforce capacity to implement the proposed energy solutions.
This involves evaluating the availability of skilled labour, local/regional accessibility to skilled resources, gaps in technical expertise, and the need for training and capacity-building programs.
Ensuring that the regional workforce has the necessary skills and expertise to support the selected energy solutions will be crucial for the timely, equitable, and effective delivery of the regional energy plan.
Best practicies/Success stories
Finally, planners should organize stakeholder consultations to gather feedback on key aspects of the regional energy plan, review the different energy solutions and gain public acceptability.
These consultations should engage a diverse range of stakeholders, for instance businesses, local authorities, and other interested parties (including the public if deemed appropriate). Stakeholder consultations can take various forms, such as workshops, focus groups, online surveys and meetings.
The objectives of the stakeholder consultations should be to:
- Present the findings of the cost-benefit analysis and practical feasibility assessment, including the rationale for prioritising certain solutions
- Solicit feedback on the proposed energy options, their distributional impacts, and potential implementation challenges
- Address concerns and answer questions from stakeholders
- Build stakeholder support and buy-in for the regional energy plan
Τhe Energy Efficiency First principle should be clearly communicated as a guiding priority of the planning process, thus enabling meaningful stakeholder feedback during these consultation meetings.
Additional resources
This stage focuses on selecting specific actions and formulating a robust regional energy plan, based on the potential impact, cost-effectiveness, net benefits, distributional impacts and alignment with stakeholder priorities of the optimal energy solutions. The plan should be in line with the Energy Efficiency First principle.
In this step, planners should prioritize and select the energy solutions/interventions, considering their potential multiple impacts, cost-effectiveness, practical feasibility and alignment with the priorities of the various stakeholders. The prioritization process should be aligned with the Energy Efficiency First principle. As such, planners should ensure that energy efficiency measures are fully considered and given priority wherever they offer equal or greater value than supply-side alternatives.
Subsequently, a sound plan should be developed that clearly defines short-, medium-, and long-term actions/interventions. For each action, the scope, responsible/contributing actors, timelines, estimated implementation costs, expected impacts, required resources and likely funding sources/mechanisms should be outlined. When considering responsibilities, the person/body in charge of the implementation of each action should be clearly identified.
Designating a person/body in charge of incorporating the Energy Efficiency First principle in the plan and ensuring this is considered when implementing actions could also be beneficial. In addition, the plan should carefully consider regional/local targets set and ensure that these can be met through the implementation of the actions Demonstration projects should also be identified, i.e. projects that address specific challenges or opportunities in the region that can showcase the feasibility and benefits of innovative energy technologies or approaches, and provide valuable learning experiences to the local community. These can help build public support, attract investments and stimulate local markets for new energy solutions.
The Energy Efficiency First principle should be applied in planning, policy and major investment decisions not only in the energy sector but also in non-energy sectors with significant impact on energy consumption.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) Tool
This Excel tool serves as a valuable aid for energy planners by facilitating the prioritization of various energy options and ultimately supporting the decision-making process. The tool enables planners and stakeholders to derive aggregated scores and rankings, thus identifying the most feasible energy options for the region. In particular, it allows the selection of criteria and the assignment of weights to these criteria, encompassing factors such as environmental sustainability, social equity and economic feasibility. Stakeholders and/or planners can then assign scores to the selected criteria for each solution, aiding in a qualitative assessment, whilst the tool also assists decision-makers in quantifying qualitative impacts when evaluating solutions. Subsequently, it calculates scores to provide a quantitative assessment of impacts, enabling more informed decision-making.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) Tool Download
Additional resources
- Technology Catalogues
- European Product Registry for Energy Labelling
- Hotmaps-The open source mapping and planning tool for heating and cooling
- De-risking Energy Efficiency Platform (DEEP)
Planners should establish robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress in implementing the regional energy plan and assess its’ performance against established objectives and targets. These systems should involve regular data collection, analysis, and reporting on key performance indicators, such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy generation, and energy efficiency improvements.
The monitoring and evaluation process should also involve periodic reviews and assessments of specific projects and actions to identify challenges, successes, and lessons learned. The person in charge of incorporating the Energy Efficiency First principle in the plan, if designated, could support the monitoring and evaluation of the plan’s implementation.
Monitoring Template
This template can assist planners in monitoring the implementation of the actions/interventions incorporated in the regional energy plan. It can enable planners report on progress and on the impact of actions/interventions and evaluate their effectiveness.
Monitoring Template Download
The regional energy plan should be put out to public consultation to gather feedback from stakeholders and citizens, in order to ensure the public’s acceptance and buy-in. The public should also be informed about the importance of incorporating the Energy Efficiency First principle and the aim of the regional/local authority to prioritize Energy Efficiency over renewable/energy supply investments. After thoroughly considering the results of the public consultation, the plan should be finalised and published.
Additional resources
- Background Document on Public Consultation
- What is Public Consultation?
- Public Consultation Guidelines
Best practicies/Success stories
- Vienna’s Climate Team: using an award-winning hybrid engagement approach to tackle climate change
- Case study: collective urban planning in the London Borough of Newham
- Case Study: Citizen Proposals in Linz
- Norwich, CT teams up with local development corporation to develop a community engagement platform
Overall Stage material
- CoM Guidebook 'How to develop a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP)'- Part 3: Policies, key actions, good practices for mitigation and adaptation to climate change and Financing SECAP(s)
- C-Track 50 Guidebook for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050
- ICLEI;s Climate Neutrality Framework
- The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Guiding Principles for City Climate Action Planning
- Cities Climate Transition Framework
This stage focuses on implementing the regional energy plan, tracking progress, and periodically reviewing and updating it.
For each action/solution incorporated in the plan, a detailed implementation plan should be developed that outlines specific steps, allocates resources, roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, as well as defines in detail activities, timelines and key milestones. Robust planning ensures that each measure is actionable, trackable, and aligned with the overarching objectives of the energy strategy.
Securing funding is also crucial for the implementation of actions and projects. Planners should therefore explore a range of funding sources, such as public funds, private investments, grants, and loans, and identify the most suitable options for each action and project, based on its scale, scope, and risk profile.
In line with the Energy Efficiency First principle, planners should prioritise and de-risk investments in energy efficiency measures, many of which offer high social value. As such, implementation plans should address potential barriers and risks, including technical, financial, regulatory, and social, and propose mitigation measures to safeguard successful delivery and long-term impact.
Additional resources
To successfully implement sustainable energy actions and projects, planners should establish partnerships with key stakeholders. These may include utilities, businesses, research institutions, non-profit organizations, and other relevant entities. Partnerships can help leverage resources, expertise, and networks to support project implementation, as well as facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders.
Additionally, partnerships can enable in-kind contributions, such as land, expertise or equipment from stakeholders, and promote innovation through shared learning and knowledge exchange to support project implementation.
Planners should especially engage partners who can deliver energy efficiency solutions,such as local contractors, energy service companies (ESCOs), and vocational training providers, to amplify local impact and build long-term capabilities.
Strategic partnerships not only increase project viability but also foster alignment across sectors and scales, creating shared ownership of the regional energy transition and reinforcing the resilience and sustainability of outcomes.
Additional resources
Throughout the implementation phase, planners should communicate successes to stakeholders and the public to maintain support and engagement. Regular updates on progress in implementing sustainable energy actions and projects, as well as their impacts and tangible benefits (such as cost savings, emissions reductions, job creation, or improvements in quality of life), can help build public trust and enthusiasm for the regional energy plan.
Communication efforts should be tailored to reach diverse audiences and may include press releases, newsletters, social media campaigns, community events, and targeted briefings.
Highlighting wins, especially those resulting from energy efficiency measures, can demonstrate the practical value of the Energy Efficiency First principle.
Best practicies/Success stories
Finally, the regional energy plan should be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure that it remains relevant and responsive to evolving regional needs and circumstances. The revision process should carefully consider the outcomes of the comprehensive assessment of the plan's progress towards meeting its objectives and targets, the effectiveness of specific actions/projects and lessons learnt from these. It should also take into account the changing energy landscape, technological advancements, and stakeholder priorities.
Considering the Energy Efficiency First principle during the review process ensures that energy efficiency solutions continue to be considered as the system evolves, particularly where new efficiency opportunities emerge through innovation or improved data.
Based on the outcomes of the review, planners should identify areas for improvement and revise the plan accordingly, including revising sustainable energy actions and projects, adjusting targets and objectives, and refining tailored implementation plans.
Additional resources
Overall Stage material
Incorporating the EE1st principle into regional energy planning
Co-funded by the European Union under project ID 101076088. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.