The Klimaans Otterbeek project wins EUSEW 2025 award for its innovative local energy initiatives and strong community involvement. This achievement highlights the project’s efforts to empower citizens as active participants in the energy transition and demonstrates the impact of close collaboration at the neighbourhood level. Led by Klimaan, together with Stad Mechelen and Woonmaatschappij Rivierenland – Woonland, the project received the Local Energy Action Award at the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) 2025.
This groundbreaking initiative brings affordable, citizen-financed solar energy to 200 social housing units in Mechelen. It’s a shining example of what happens when communities take the lead in the energy transition: practical, inclusive solutions that put people — not profit — at the center.
The project’s success was bolstered by Klimaan’s active involvement as a U2Demo pilot site, where tools like gamification are used to engage and empower citizens. By making energy transition more accessible and interactive, U2Demo helps ensure that everyone — especially those often excluded — can take part in shaping a sustainable future.
As Bart De Bruyne (Stad Mechelen and REScoop.Vlaanderen) powerfully stated:
“Without inclusivity, the energy transition risks deepening inequality and triggering resistance.”
Otterbeek is more than a success story — it’s part of a larger movement across Europe toward fair, locally owned energy systems rooted in community participation.
We also proudly recognize Sophie Loots (REScoop.Vlaanderen), a finalist for the Women in Energy Award, whose leadership continues to inspire citizen-led climate action across the continent.
At the award ceremony, European Commission Vice-President Teresa Ribera reminded us:
“It’s often the small, local projects that show us the way forward. We need more women. More courage. More imagination.”
This recognition fuels our collective momentum. At U2Demo, we remain committed to building a clean energy future — by and for the people. We warmly congratulate Klimaan on this well-deserved recognition!
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