Solar Adria

The Adriatic region is an ideal place for solar energy systems. To meet energy and climate targets, national policies call for an increase of solar energy utilisation. However, the limited knowledge capacity of local decision-makers, and the lack of tools for guiding investments limits the inclusion of solar projects into the planning documents.

In order to promote solar energy on the Adriatic coast, the project pursued various measures. Firstly, missing knowledge bases and tools for the development of solar energy projects were identified and the solar potential in the pilot municipalities of Koper (SVN) and Starigrad (HVR) was analysed. The mapping tool developed within the project facilitated this exercise. Based on this, various documents required for the successful implementation of an urban solar project were drafted. Special attention was given to strengthening cooperation between stakeholders. For this purpose, a guideline was created that can support municipalities in the planning and creation of solar energy projects.

• Online tools for solar projects: The online matchmaking platform developed as part of the project supports local authorities, businesses and citizens in Starigrad and Koper in planning and implementing solar projects. With the help of an online tool, they can calculate the solar production potential of individual buildings and obtain an initial assessment of investment and operating costs. Templates for feasibility studies and business models can also be downloaded via the platform, which simplifies the efficient launch of solar projects.
• New collaborations: The exchange between local authorities, non-profit organisations and private and public companies has led to new collaborations in which solar projects can be jointly advanced.