EnerCmed Project: A Hybrid Paradigm Combining Energy Communities and Nature-Based Solutions to Enhance the Sustainability of Mediterranean Cities

Mediterranean cities are increasingly affected by climate change, energy inequality and environmental pollution. Rising temperatures, the effects of the urban heat island (UHI) and growing energy demand exacerbate socio-economic inequalities and energy poverty. To address these challenges, integrated strategies are needed, that combine effective energy system management with robust urban planning adapted to local climatic conditions. This manuscript aims to present the pilot actions implemented in the EnerCmed Project, an EU-funded project that aims to promote the sustainability in port cities by taking action in urban areas near the port, with the aim of enhancing and supporting their development. The project adopt a combined approach in which a renewable energy community (REC) or a self-consumption scheme (SCS) will be implemented through the installation of renewable energy production using Photovoltaic plant (PV) systems, to collectively generate, manage and share the energy produced from renewable sources. The key paradigm of the project consists in the development of the REC/SCS coupled with a nature-based solution (NBS) tailored to the area concerned, that increase the social acceptability and reduce UHI. This approach is oriented towards the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels, acting as a catalyst for a society in which energy autonomy and socio-economic well-being become central, thanks to actions that mitigate energy poverty and support social inclusion. This manuscript highlights the preliminary results of the EnerCmed project, demonstrating how the simultaneous implementation of REC/SCS and NBS contributes to improving energy efficiency, climate adaptation, economic and social inclusion in line with the objectives of the EU Green Deal.