Briefing: Prosumer Paradox – How Outdated Grids Undermine Energy Poverty Efforts

EUKI Project A+ Approach to Enhance Energy Transition supports local authorities in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries in leading the decarbonisation process. It ensures a fair energy transition through increased access to EU funds and capacity-building activities.

In the Czech Republic, Poland and Romania, outdated distribution grids prevent equitable access to energy. They fail to integrate prosumers and undermine programmes aimed at reducing energy poverty. This briefing examines common challenges such as underinvestment, capacity constraints and urban-rural disparities. It proposes solutions tailored to energy-poor communities, including participatory governance through energy cooperatives and cost-effective smart grid technologies.