The Estonian Islands Energy Agency (EISEA) and the Canada‑based Accelerating Community Energy Transformation (ACET) initiative, led by the University of Victoria, have launched a new international collaboration to support the development of community‑centred renewable energy on the Western Estonian islands.
The partnership will deliver three comprehensive, sequential studies examining the technical, economic and social dimensions of local renewable energy development. Together, they aim to identify robust, evidence‑based models that strengthen island energy security, support local economic development, and enhance community participation and resilience.
The collaboration highlights the growing importance of international knowledge exchange in advancing clean energy transitions in island contexts. By combining Canadian research leadership with Estonian expertise and innovation, the partnership seeks to develop practical approaches that can be adapted and scaled across island regions.
Curran Crawford, Executive Director of ACET, emphasised the value of cross‑border cooperation in accelerating local energy solutions:
“This partnership highlights the value of international collaboration for accelerating community‑centred clean energy solutions. By bringing together Canadian research leadership and Estonian innovation and expertise, we are creating practical models that strengthen local energy independence.”
Sulev Alajõe, Director of the Estonian Islands Energy Agency, underlined the importance of evidence‑based planning for the islands’ energy future:
“The Estonian islands require a fundamental energy transition supported by robust, evidence‑based decisions to ensure local energy production that reflects community expectations. These studies will enable us to evaluate projects holistically and guide investments toward sustainable, long‑term benefits.”
The studies will involve Estonian academic partners TalTech and the University of Tartu, ensuring scientific rigour and a deep understanding of the local context. Research activities are scheduled to begin in 2026.
Three studies supporting resilient island energy systems
The first study will focus on biogas systems and circular‑economy business models on Saaremaa, Estonia’s largest island. It will assess opportunities related to biochar and other bioproducts, alongside the integration of biogas into district heating systems. The research will explore how biogas projects can diversify the local economy while preparing island communities for forthcoming European Union regulations on biogas use.
The second study will examine the social impacts of large‑scale renewable energy projects on island communities. It will investigate how residents’ values and worldviews shape attitudes towards renewable energy developments, intending to develop scientifically grounded models that support transparent, fair and inclusive planning processes that reflect community interests.
The third study will explore the role of energy communities in strengthening and securing local energy systems. This includes monitoring a pilot project on Hiiumaa, Estonia’s second‑largest island, which integrates renewable energy production, energy distribution and sustainable transport solutions. Drawing on Canadian experience with energy cooperatives and community‑owned energy systems, the study will generate valuable comparative insights for both countries.
Research under this partnership is funded in part by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund through the ACET initiative.