The Environmental Economics Knowledge Center at Nova SBE took part in the latest edition of Pint of Science, the international festival that brings research out of academic settings and into informal spaces, fostering dialogue between researchers and the wider public.
The session, entitled “What If Your Neighbourhood Produced Its Own Electricity?”, was presented by Ana Rita Tapadinhas, Research Assistant at Nova SBE, and explored how energy communities and energy literacy can empower citizens to play a more active role in the energy transition.
Drawing on the work developed within the European project WeGenerate, Ana Rita discussed how communities can become active participants in energy systems, not only as consumers but also as producers and decision-makers. The session highlighted the potential of energy communities to strengthen local engagement, support decarbonisation efforts and contribute to a more inclusive and participatory energy transition.
Participants were also invited to reflect on the role of energy literacy in helping citizens better understand energy-related challenges and opportunities, enabling more informed decisions and greater involvement in shaping sustainable energy futures.
The event provided an opportunity to showcase the work being developed under WeGenerate, a European project that supports local communities in the transition towards more sustainable and participatory energy systems. Through collaboration with citizens and local stakeholders, the project aims to strengthen energy literacy, encourage active participation and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
By bringing science closer to society, initiatives such as Pint of Science create valuable spaces for dialogue around complex societal challenges and encourage greater public engagement in the transition towards a more sustainable future.