Pioneering Luxembourg’s energy transition, winegrower Nicolas Gloden took the bold step of creating his own energy community.
An unconventional model of cooperation : how solar energy brings businesses together
By installing several photovoltaic systems and founding a non-profit organisation (ASBL), Nicolas Gloden is creating a sustainable network. This enables the direct exchange of locally generated electricity with the Hotel Belle Vue in Vianden, which purchases any surplus energy. This optimises the use of resources, reduces costs and strengthens regional value creation.
Planning, partnership, and production: key steps of the project
- Research and guidance: Nicolas Gloden attended information events organised by Klima-Agence and used practical tools, such as those provided by Creos, to plan and optimise his project.
- Networking: partnership with Hotel Belle Vue in Vianden to sell excess electricity, enabling the distribution of resources among partner companies.
- Infrastructure: the first photovoltaic system was installed in just a single day in July 2024.
Formalisation and regulation: bringing the community to life
- Creation of a non-profit association (ASBL) to officially establish the energy community.
- Rapid approval of the project by the ILR (Luxembourg Regulatory Institute).
- Implementation of a national sharing group, allowing direct electricity exchange between community members.
An inspiring example for the energy transition
Nicolas Gloden’s journey shows that with the right support, farmers and winegrowers can play an active role in the energy transition. Every kilowatt-hour produced locally makes a meaningful contribution to Luxembourg’s energy future.
