Navigating Data Challenges in the Energy Transition - Slovenia

In November 2025, the Municipality of Postojna took an important step forward in its energy transition journey by hosting a dedicated RECET workshop in cooperation with the RDA Zeleni Kras. The event was organised in synergy with the RERURAL project led by the Regional Development Agency Zeleni Kras (RDA Zeleni Kras) and served as a platform to strengthen regional collaboration and accelerate progress on the municipality’s Comprehensive Energy Transition (CET) plan.

The workshop focused on presenting the current status of the CET plan and gathering valuable feedback from participants. Discussions centred on finalising the plan, identifying needs and expectations for upcoming capacity-building activities, promoting the development of energy communities, and advancing energy literacy among the general public. By bringing together municipal representatives, experts, and stakeholders, the event reinforced the importance of coordinated regional action in achieving a clean energy transition.

Data Collection Challenges Delay CET Plan

The preparation of the CET plan in Postojna has faced delays due to complex data acquisition processes. Developing a comprehensive and evidence-based energy transition strategy requires accurate and complete datasets — particularly regarding local heat supply systems.

However, several barriers have complicated this process. These include inconsistent or incomplete data on local heating infrastructure, jurisdictional challenges between system operators, and administrative constraints when accessing relevant datasets. Despite these setbacks, the municipality remains committed to securing all necessary information to ensure that the CET plan is robust, credible, and actionable.

Engaging Stakeholders to Move Forward

Recognising that data challenges and limited stakeholder engagement were slowing progress, the Municipality of Postojna intensified its outreach efforts. Extensive consultations were conducted with key municipal decision-makers, technical staff and sectoral departments, local institutions and utility providers, experts from RDA Zeleni Kras, and other relevant stakeholders.

These targeted meetings proved crucial. They helped overcome data barriers, refine the concept of a local energy community, and align stakeholders around shared priorities. At the same time, the process revealed a broader issue: a lack of awareness and practical knowledge about renewable energy sources (RES) and energy efficiency (EE) measures among public officials and other actors.

Energy Community as a Catalyst for Implementation

To address both limited engagement and knowledge gaps, Postojna adopted a broader regional approach. By linking RECET activities with complementary projects and initiatives, the municipality sought to mobilise a wider circle of stakeholders and create renewed momentum.

One promising solution that emerged was the establishment of an energy community or cooperative. Initially envisioned as a collaboration among public institutions, the initiative would gradually open to other interested stakeholders. The energy community is intended to act as a catalyst for CET implementation, providing access to practical expertise, renewable energy solutions, and energy efficiency measures.

This approach not only supports technical implementation but also fosters local ownership and long-term commitment to the transition process.

Building Capacity for Long-Term Change

Another key outcome of the engagement process has been the development of a dedicated capacity-building course for public officials. A lack of awareness of the benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency — combined with limited practical knowledge on how to integrate these measures into everyday administrative work — has been identified as a major obstacle.

To address this, a comprehensive training programme is currently under development. The first draft has already been prepared and will now be refined into a final version. The course will provide both theoretical insights and practical applications, equipping public officials with the tools needed to integrate RES and EE measures into municipal planning and daily operations.

The training is expected to be implemented in early 2026, marking another important milestone in Postojna’s RECET journey.

Despite initial setbacks in the development of the CET plan, the Municipality of Postojna has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. By strengthening regional cooperation, deepening stakeholder engagement, promoting energy communities, and investing in capacity building, Postojna is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and effective energy transition process — one that reflects the core values and ambitions of the RECET project.