Overview of the national policy framework for energy communities

As of January 2024, energy communities can be formally established in Czechia following amendments to the Energy Act (Lex OZE II). The Energy Act establishes both renewable energy communities (společenstvím pro obnovitelné zdroje) and citizen energy communities (called energy communities, energetickým společenstvím). They can be established with various legal forms and need to serve a core purpose of delivering environmental, social, or economic benefits to their members or the local area. There are strict limitations or even prohibitions to sharing of financial benefits with the members of the energy community, depending on the legal entity chosen. Energy communities are registered with a national authority, who checks and confirms their alignments with these conditions. Secondary legislation supports simplified administrative procedures, particularly for smaller communities. Czech legislation continues to evolve, with further provisions expected under the upcoming Lex OZE III, including expanded rights for flexibility services and anti-discrimination rules in electricity sharing.

An alternative to these community structures is the Active Customer model, which allows up to 11 connection points - including households or businesses- to share electricity across the national grid without forming a formal community. This model offers more flexibility in terms of membership and energy sharing arrangements.

While some public funding has previously supported community energy projects, such as through the Environment programme under the National Recovery Plan, no active calls are currently open. However, future financial support is anticipated through the KOMUNERG programme, backed by the EU's Modernisation Fund.

Last updated: May 2025