- Hersonissos introduces the “Cherronisos – Lyttos Pediadas” Energy Community
- Focus on clean energy, photovoltaic installations, and lower costs
- Benefits to support citizens and vulnerable households
- EU funding request submitted for technical and administrative support
- Educational and outreach programs planned across the municipality
A Green Vision from a Municipality Known for… Other Things
The Municipality of Hersonissos is aiming high — very high.
At the official presentation of the “Χερρόνησος – Λύττος Πεδιάδας” Energy Community, local officials spoke about becoming a national example for the transition to clean, affordable energy.
Now, anyone familiar with Hersonissos will smile at the ambition.
This is a municipality famously juggling everything from chaotic tourism pressure to legendary delays in infrastructure projects.
But credit where credit is due: this time, the idea is solid.
The new Energy Community is a major initiative, bringing together the Municipality of Hersonissos, the Municipal Port Fund, DEYAX, and ESDAC — all organizations deeply connected to the daily life of local residents.
Its goal is simple:
produce clean energy, reduce electricity costs, and return the savings to citizens.
What the Energy Community Plans to Do
The initiative focuses on renewable energy, particularly small-scale photovoltaic installations on:
- municipal buildings
- schools
- non-productive municipal land
- other public facilities
Savings from the energy produced will go back into improving:
- municipal services
- social support programs
- local development projects
- and, importantly, relief for vulnerable households
In a region with high energy demand and seasonal population spikes, the project has the potential to make a real difference — provided everything actually moves forward on schedule. (Locals know why that sentence needed clarification.)
Funding the Green Shift
To support the initiative, the municipality has already applied for EU funding through the European Energy Communities Facility. The proposal includes:
- technical and economic planning
- long-term business strategy
- legal and administrative support
- public education campaigns
If approved, the funding will give Hersonissos the framework it needs to move from theory to actual installation — a crucial step, because big ideas often take time to materialize on the island.
Informing and Engaging the Community
The Energy Community is not only about infrastructure. It is also about outreach, knowledge, and participation.
Plans include:
- informational events
- meetings with business associations
- discussions with local enterprises
- educational activities for students
The goal is to help residents understand both the benefits and their role in the new clean-energy era.
Mayor Zacharias Doxastakis described the initiative as “not just a technical project, but a social investment.” He added: “Clean energy can reduce costs for both the municipality and citizens, support vulnerable households, and strengthen social cohesion. With cooperation, transparency, and vision, Hersonissos can become a reference point for Crete’s green transition.”
Time will tell whether this vision unfolds smoothly — but for now, Hersonissos is taking a step toward a cleaner, fairer energy future. And in a region that has often struggled with infrastructure and environmental challenges, any move in the green direction is welcome.
