Citizen-led renovation: the missing link to Europe’s renovation goals

Across Europe, millions of homes need to become more energy efficient to meet the EU's climate and energy objectives. Yet many households still struggle to start renovating due to uncertainty, a lack of reliable information and the complexity of the process.

Why trusted local advice matters

This is where citizen-led renovation can make the difference. Local energy communities are showing across Europe that independent guidance significantly increases homeowners' confidence and willingness to renovate [1]. Supporting these local actors with the right funding, knowledge and tools can help translate Europe's renovation ambitions into action. Renovisor partner Energie Samen has over 200 members in the Netherlands who are active in the field of citizen-led renovation.  

Research and practical experience in the Netherlands show that people are more likely to renovate when they receive advice from a thrusted local [2]. Many citizen-led initiatives in the Netherlands use volunteer energy coaches who understand the local context and help households explore suitable renovation pathways. This community-based approach reaches residents who are often missed by traditional campaigns and enables them to make informed, long-term decisions for their homes.

Supporting citizen advisors with Renovisor

To maximise this impact one of the tools citizen advisors need is effective digital support. Renovisor is developing a platform that guides through single-family, multi-family and neighbourhood renovation processes. By combining renovation pathways with practical decision-support tools, the platform enables citizen-led initiatives to deliver consistent, high-quality advice.

Meeting the ambitions of the European Green Deal and the Renovation Wave requires more than funding and technology. It also depends on trusted local engagement that turns policy ambitions into real renovations. By equipping energy coaches with digital tools, Renovisor helps accelerate renovation rates and improve the quality of renovation decisions. The project is currently demonstrating this approach through pilot initiatives in Ireland, Spain and the Netherlands.

Learn more about Renovisor and discover how trusted local advice and digital innovation are helping make Europe's Renovation Wave a reality.