🌍 In a recent article published by Deutsche Welle, the spotlight shines on the remarkable efforts of Citizen-led invation pilot Izgrei, a grassroots energy project in Belozem, a rural village in south-central Bulgaria.

🔆 Clean Energy Revolution: Despite Bulgaria historically lagging behind much of Europe in clean energy initiatives, Izgrei is making waves. Led by the visionary Georgiev brothers — Mihail (environmental studies enthusiast) and Tsvetan (engineering expert) — this small cooperative is rewriting the energy landscape.

🌱 Mission & Challenges: Several years ago, Izgrei embarked on a mission: to establish a clean energy collective. But Bulgarian law didn’t yet provide a legal framework for energy communities. Undeterred, the Georgievs persisted, fueled by their community’s needs—energy poverty and frequent outages.

🚀 The Journey: Legal barriers and regulatory hoops tried to trip them up, but Izgrei pressed forward. Guided by NGO experts and bolstered by international solidarity (thanks, REScoop.eu!), they carved a path. Their unwavering commitment bore fruit: Bulgaria recognizsd civic energy cooperatives in October 2023.

🤝 Community at the Core: Izgrei’s secret sauce? Democracy and engagement. They invite local residents to the renewable energy table. Solar panels now grace rooftops, and surplus electricity flows — a testament to their impact.