Overview
In Estonia, the establishment of energy communities is legally permitted, allowing citizens, small and medium-sized enterprises, and local governments to form entities engaged in energy production, consumption, sharing, storage, and sales. Their primary goal is to provide environmental, economic, or social benefits to the community rather than generate profit.
Energy communities can operate in various legal forms and engage in renewable energy investments, energy efficiency improvements, and energy-related education. They contribute to energy independence, strengthen local cooperation, and keep financial benefits within the local economy.
These regulations support prosumer participation, enabling individuals to generate, store, and share electricity. Energy sharing is facilitated through local energy initiatives, fostering sustainability and reducing reliance on centralized energy suppliers.
Summary of regulations
The Estonian Electricity Market Act provides a legal framework for energy sharing, energy communities, and prosumers, promoting decentralized energy production and local participation.
Energy sharing is enabled through renewable energy communities and self-consumption, allowing individuals and organizations to produce, store, and distribute energy among members. Energy communities, which can be formed by individuals, SMEs, or local governments, have the right to share internally produced energy while contributing to grid stability.
Prosumers, or active consumers who generate their own electricity, can self-consume, store, and sell excess energy. They are granted fair access to the electricity market and support schemes while ensuring contributions to grid maintenance.
Competent authorities
- Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications
- Estonian Competition Authority
- Environmental Investment Centre
- Elering (TSO)
- Distribution System Operators (DSOs)
- Local Governments
