How can local authorities empower their citizens to actively participate in the transformation of the energy system? Achieving broad societal acceptance is crucial for the success of the energy transition, and this involves engaging citizens in the process. The energy transition brings forth both technical and social innovations, presenting new opportunities for citizens to play a role as consumers, energy producers, or investors. However, this transformation also places new responsibilities on citizens, requiring them to actively and responsibly contribute to shaping the energy transition.

The Climate Citizens research project aims to uncover and utilize these opportunities for citizen involvement. Through workshops with active citizens and regional partners, customized concepts have been developed for participating municipalities. These concepts are designed to assist municipalities in supporting their Climate Citizens in their commitment.

In 2015, I collaborated with the research team (comprising the Institute for Future Energy Systems, Institute for Ecological Economy Research, and Zeppelin University) to design participation formats and moderated three workshops at diverse locations (Heidelberg, Nahlbach, and Steinfurt).