Integrating technical assessment and stakeholder engagement: A case-based approach to explore thermal renewable energy communities

This paper investigates the preliminary feasibility of a novel Thermal Renewable Energy Community (TREC) model centred on biomass-based district heating networks, through the EU Horizon 2020 project BECoop. Given the current regulatory gaps and limited implementation of TRECs compared to electrical ones, the study aimed to develop a participatory approach to co-design a biomass-fueled community heating system in the mountain area of Valtellina, northern Italy. The research methodology involved three key phases: pilot area selection, community co-creation processes, and a technical-economic pre-feasibility study. Initially, the pilot was selected based on biomass availability, climatic conditions, political support, and absence of natural gas networks. Subsequently, local stakeholders, including municipalities, citizens, and biomass suppliers were actively engaged through targeted workshops, surveys, and interviews, collaboratively defining a shared vision and roadmap for the TREC. The pre-feasibility assessment combined data from public regional energy databases, GIS tools and site-specific surveys to estimate local heat demand, biomass availability, and system sizing. A biomass Combined Heat and Power system coupled with an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) was proposed, highlighting substantial environmental benefits, around 70 % savings in primary energy and emissions, but also significant economic and governance challenges. Findings underline the necessity of clear regulatory frameworks, innovative financing schemes, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement to successfully implement TRECs. This participatory and integrated approach represents a replicable methodology to foster local bioenergy solutions, promoting citizen empowerment and sustainable community resilience.