Published on: June 16, 2025
The Regio1st project, funded by the LIFE Programme with co-funding from the European Union, participated in a high-level policy roundtable at the European Parliament on the topic: ‘Energy Prices for All: Climate and Energy Planning as a Key Driver of Transition’s Affordability’.
Hosted by Italian MEP Benedetta Scuderi of the European Greens, the event brought together energy and climate experts from Italy, Croatia, and Ireland, including Joško Klisović, a member of the Committee of the Regions, who shared insights from his work.
Held in Brussels, the roundtable aimed to explore how integrated climate and energy planning can help make the energy transition more affordable and equitable for all citizens. The discussion emphasised that strategic policy frameworks are essential for balancing climate objectives with the need for accessible and fair energy pricing.
Representing the South East Energy Agency and the Regio1st project, Martin Desgrandchamps, EU Project Officer, contributed to a panel discussion titled ‘Energy and Climate Planning: A Key Lever for Affordability in a Just Transition Perspective’. He underscored the importance of inclusive, well-structured planning as a means to align ambitious climate targets with social justice and affordability.
The event highlighted the critical role of local and regional actors in shaping resilient energy policies that protect both people and the planet.
Key Takeaways:
- Early involvement of local and regional actors is crucial in climate and energy planning processes.
- ‘Energy efficiency first’ must be seen not as a slogan but as a practical strategy for equity and affordability.
- There is a need to connect spatial planning with sustainable finance to enable long-term, people-centred solutions.
- Affordability goes beyond pricing; it’s about ensuring access to clean, reliable energy for all, including both vulnerable groups and the struggling middle class.
The Regio1st project continues to champion the role of regional planning in delivering a just, inclusive, and energy-efficient transition across Europe.
About Regio1st
REGIO1ST raises awareness about the Energy Efficiency First principle (EE1st) among regional governments and their agencies and supports them to make related decisions in their planning. Find out more.
