Sparking ideas for an inclusive energy transition in Europe

C40 Cities and the City of Lisbon recently co-hosted an Inclusive Climate Action Masterclass, bringing together city teams from Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon, Milan, Paris, Rotterdam, and Warsaw to tackle energy poverty and promote a fair energy transition.

Part of C40's Inclusive Climate Action European pilot programme, these cities are exploring ways to create policies that are inclusive and fair, helping lift people out of energy poverty while supporting a just transition. This masterclass allowed participants to share ideas, learn from each other, and identify common challenges and solutions.

The event featured expert presentations on measuring energy poverty and reaching vulnerable communities. Participants also visited innovative energy communities and energy-efficient housing projects in Lisbon.?

A highlight included a panel hosted by the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas , which focused on how cities and their partners are taking action to help the most vulnerable during the energy transition.?

Some of the key takeaways include:

• Energy poverty is complex and hard to measure. Cities need holistic approaches and cross-department collaboration to tackle it effectively.
• Cities need local data to design policies that meet the needs of their communities, especially the most vulnerable.
• Ongoing support at the political and technical levels, along with opportunities for cities to exchange ideas, is essential.

During the event, C40 launched new resources covering the energy poverty landscape in Europe and showcasing the work of Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon, Milan, Paris, Rotterdam, and Warsaw as part of the pilot project. The infographics capture the cities' achievements and key outcomes, supporting efforts to continue and expand this important work.

This masterclass is part of C40’s broader effort to highlight city leadership in driving a fair energy transition across Europe.

Learn about C40’s work on inclusive cities