FIRST 1 MW SOLAR POWER PLANT FOR WEnCoop IN KASSANDREIA, HALKIDIKI
Even before the energy storm of price increases broke out, the Greek Association of Women Entrepreneurs (SEGE) was looking for actions that would strengthen the role of women in the economy and especially in an area such as energy, where their presence there is very limited.
It took several workshops between members, analysis of models, ideas and proposals to reach the production of energy from RES (Renewable Energy Sources) and to drop the seed throughout the country. The foundations of this initiative are laid by the first photovoltaic station, which is located in the wider area of Kassandreia in Halkidiki.
On December 16, 2020, the initial conception of the idea took place by S.E.G.E. to create a “broad base” energy cooperative of Women Entrepreneurs and their Businesses.
The situation was considered ideal for the investment of 60 women, as through the autonomy provided by the energy community, companies will cover the cost of electricity, which is one of the most important operating costs.
With determination, methodical work and teamwork, the female energy cooperative managed to overcome the obstacles of the Greek bureaucracy. According to the members of WEnCoop, in the current era of e-government, the process of signing the statute took two whole months. This is why they had to be sent all over Greece to all the women, in order for them to sign the relevant documents. Nevertheless, within 12 months WEnCoop managed to submit the application for the 1MW solar power plant to the Energy Regulatory Authority. In November 2021 WenCoop received the terms of the connection and then completed the purchase of the plot. All that remains is the green light from theHellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator, for its connection to the HEDNO network to proceed.
In order to increase the capacity of community projects to more than 3 MW, the development of charging stations for electric vehicles is being studied, through cooperation with WEnCoop members who have gas stations.
Energy communities are an important vehicle for the transition to green economy and in addition to self-consumption, WEnCoop wants and aims to provide free quantities to vulnerable groups, mainly single-parent families of women, etc.
