This booklet describes the outcomes of four years of research and co-creation in the Venserpolder neighborhood. This research was done as part of the Local Inclusive Future Energy (LIFE) project. The LIFE project ran from 2021 to 2025 and was a collaboration between research inst
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This booklet describes the outcomes of four years of research and co-creation in the Venserpolder neighborhood. This research was done as part of the Local Inclusive Future Energy (LIFE) project. The LIFE project ran from 2021 to 2025 and was a collaboration between research institutions, the municipality of Amsterdam, companies, and local stakeholders in Amsterdam Southeast.
The project had two goals: first, to develop smart solutions to reduce the congestion in the electricity grid. Second, to explore how such solutions can reduce energy poverty in Amsterdam Southeast. From this second goal, the initiative emerged to establish an energy community in Venserpolder.
This booklet describes how residents, researchers, and local actors collaborated as much as possible. We describe the co-creation activities and the common responses and concerns of residents. Additionally, the booklet provides information on what an energy community is, how it functions and how a neighborhood can transition away from natural gas in the future.
First of all, this booklet is intended for residents: to provide information about the research but, more importantly, as an invitation to participate. Together, we can ensure a stable and low energy price, energy security, and stronger cooperation within the neighborhood. This booklet may also be of interest to researchers, municipal employees, and other professionals working in the energy transition.