Institutional and policy context of energy communities in France and Italy: how to increase the welfare-enhancing capacity of the sector

Energy communities flourish when specific conditions related to institutional design, territorial characteristics, and policy context are suitable. Investigating and comparing the background of this movement in selected countries provides a better understanding of the similarities and differences between markets and policy-driven initiatives. Selected case studies from France and Italy, ranging from the historical energy cooperatives in the Alpine region to country-wide innovative models, provide evidence of their welfare-enhancing roles. Comparative examination of the institutional design, policy context, operational structure, and benefits offers insights both for decision-makers and entrepreneurs willing to contribute to the further development of energy communities.