The REEValue consortium recently held its annual meeting, bringing together key partners from Greece, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, and Portugal to review progress and plan the next steps in energy efficiency and sustainability. The two-day event provided a platform for discussing energy audits, business recommendations, international collaboration, and the development of digital tools to support enterprises in adopting greener practices. Partners exchanged insights on best practices, policy developments, and innovative strategies to enhance energy efficiency across various sectors.
The national energy agencies for Malta and Greece, EWA and CRES, presented findings from energy audits, emphasising best practices for businesses aiming to reduce energy consumption. A new centralised database has been established to streamline energy-saving recommendations. The Malta Business Bureau described its collation of financing schemes, ensuring businesses can access the latest funding opportunities to support their efficiency investments.
Cork Chamber shared updates on REEValue’s outreach efforts, highlighting press releases, conferences, and media campaigns that have expanded the project’s visibility. Insights were also provided on international collaboration efforts, as project partners reported on stakeholder engagement activities and future networking initiatives scheduled for the year 2025, including the REEValue International Conference on 11–12 September 2025. The conference will feature country reports, business best practice case studies, value chain energy collaboration, financing opportunities, and discussions on technical solutions. It will also include breakout sessions to explore value chain partnerships and implementation strategies.
Cork Chamber also introduced the REEValue online platform, showcasing its multilingual capabilities, self-assessment tools, and funding guidance for businesses exploring energy-efficient solutions. Companies can also use the platform to calculate their potential energy savings and assess the benefits of implementing efficiency measures. The platform is undergoing promotional efforts to maximise industry adoption and engagement.
The REEValue web tool also features case studies, such as that of Sammontana, Italy’s largest gelato company, which has implemented various sustainability measures. By transitioning from plastic to paper packaging, the company reduced its CO₂ emissions by 9%, amounting to more than 4 million kg of CO₂. Additionally, Sammontana has adopted high-efficiency electric motors, LED lighting, and tri-generation systems, leading to a 12.6% reduction in unit emissions per tonne of ice cream between 2016 and 2021. This case study exemplifies how businesses can leverage energy efficiency strategies through the REEValue platform to achieve tangible environmental benefits. More details can be found on the REEValue Online Platform.
The meeting concluded with site visits, offering participants a first-hand look at the implementation of energy-saving technologies in operational settings. These visits highlighted the tangible impact of the REEValue initiative, reinforcing its dedication to practical solutions and fostering industry-wide collaboration in sustainable energy practices.
Looking ahead, the consortium remains focused on refining digital tools, strengthening local partnerships, and supporting businesses in their transition towards sustainable energy solutions. The next phase of REEValue will continue to drive energy efficiency improvements, ensuring businesses across Europe benefit from innovative and accessible solutions. The next annual meeting will take place next year, continuing its commitment to fostering collaboration and progress in sustainable energy initiatives.