Energy Democracy: Following the inspiring SUPER-i final event in Copenhagen, the SUPERSHINE consortium gathered to continue the dialogue on energy efficiency and social innovation in housing. Building on the achievements of SUPER-i, the partners explored how inclusive approaches can increase the impact of energy efficiency initiatives while addressing social and environmental challenges.

Energy Democracy and Non-Profit Housing - Insights from the Field

The SUPERSHINE team visited the Øbro 95 demo site in Copenhagen, which has shown how energy-efficiency solutions can be integrated into Demarks non-profit housing sector. With one in six Danes living in non-profit housing, this sector exemplifies the principles of energy democracy—ensuring tenant involvement, equitable access to resources, and sustainability-driven decision-making.

At Øbro 95, delegates saw another example of "tenant democracy". This refers to tenants having the right to make decisions about their social housing—they validate energy-efficiency renovation plans, shape budgets and implement house rules via elective boards and regular general assemblies.

This approach, combined with cost-based rents and a stable financing model, ensures that energy renovations are both inclusive and accessible. It is deeply rooted in the culture of Denmark's social housing and also by the SUPERSHINE Danish Lighthouse in Herning. Such frameworks closely align with the principles of the New European Bauhaus, which emphasizes aesthetics, inclusiveness, and sustainability in reimagining our living spaces, all within a strong participatory process.

Denmark’s non-profit housing model offers valuable lessons in combining energy efficiency with social equity. During the field visit, participants explored ongoing efforts to integrate solar panels, upgrade heating systems, and enhance energy performance through digitalisation and energy management. These measures not only lower emissions but also ensure affordability for tenants. AlphaGalileo/SP