Inspiring story in Italy

In the Alps there is a long history of co-operative energy production, and South Tirol is no exception. In Prad am Stilfserjoch, the first co-operative hydroelectric power station was connected to the grid in 1952.

This community in Vinschgau (pictured) produces electricity and heat using four hydroelectric power stations, one photovoltaic station and two local biomass plants. All one thousand members of the co-operative in Prad are owners of the local district heating network. Energy is here a public good that is both produced and used by local citizens.