Energy with social embeddedness and democratic participation [and ecological roots] in Spainthe case of the cooperative Som Energia

Resumen

In recent years, citizen-led initiatives promoting renewable energy production and consumption, particularly cooperatives, have emerged in Spain and neighbouring countries. These initiatives seek to secure fairer and more affordable energy prices and demonstrate a commitment to environmental protection and social activism. They are grounded in cooperativism, self-management and socio-environmental sustainability principles, aiming to contribute to a more socially equitable economy within the energy sector. This paper analyses the case of Som Energia, Spain’s first renewable energy cooperative, which boasts significant membership and production figures. It explores Som Energia’s organisational structure and practices for democratising its action. The objective is to contrast the linkage of this structure and its functioning in the social and ecological embeddedness of energy production and consumption. The research aims to elucidate the cooperative’s role in fostering sustainable socio-ecological practices and its impact on social inequalities. Key findings indicate that the Som Energia model facilitates the energy transition by promoting renewable energy production and certified commercialisation. Decision-making processes within the cooperative reflect principles of direct, deliberative and representative democracy, ensuring robust internal governance. Additionally, tools for collective learning and territorial engagement aid in community-building, information dissemination, and the creation of shared knowledge. Ultimately, this research contributes to understanding the potential of citizen-led renewable energy initiatives in promoting sustainability and equality within society.