Report on REScoop business models

Through active participation of citizens and the involvement of multiple stakeholders (including municipalities, local economic players, other cooperatives, etc.), energy cooperatives propose a unique business model when compared to conventional energy companies. This model encourages citizens’ involvement in the decision-making processes and leaves room for multi-stakeholder engagement and dialogue. This distinctive business model encompasses both assets and limitations.

This report on business models assesses and compares existing models of energy cooperatives. Using a transversal and transnational approach, it offers new REScoops (renewable energy source cooperatives) and potential entrepreneurs organisational frameworks to develop citizen-based projects in the renewable energy sector.

The report delves deeply into the following topics:

1. What are the implications of being a RES/coop on the business model?
2. What are the important dimensions of the business model and their specificities?
3. Combining the business model dimensions
4. Business models and organisational life-cycle
5. Business models and contextual variables