WEnCoop | Sector: Energy

1. Problem Description

Women in Greece traditionally face limited access to opportunities in the energy sector, due to barriers such as:

• lack of technical knowledge and training,
• low participation in decision-making roles within green transition projects,
• limited access to investment opportunities in renewable energy, and
• underrepresentation of women in energy communities and sustainability initiatives.

These challenges prevent women entrepreneurs from benefiting from the green economy and contributing
to the EU’s mission to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

2. Solution

WEnCoop was established as the first Women’s Energy Cooperative in Europe, enabling women entrepreneurs, regardless of economic background, educational level, or prior experience, to participate actively in clean energy production.

Key components of the solution include:

• Training & Education: Energy Efficiency Trainings across Greece offering knowledge on renewable energy, energy management, and green practices.
• Collective Investment: Development of 3 MW photovoltaic parks, co-owned by women members.
• Social Impact Approach: A portion of produced energy is planned for electromobility and free distribution to vulnerable groups, including single-parent families and women.
• Empowerment of Female Entrepreneurship: Creation of a supportive environment where women can develop skills, grow their businesses, and engage in the energy transition.
• Visibility & Advocacy: Continuous outreach through media, interviews, publications, and
participation in European programs to highlight women’s contribution to the green transition.

This model bridges the gender gap in the energy sector while supporting sustainable development.

3. Results

WEnCoop has produced measurable impact in the women’s entrepreneurship and energy sectors:

• Construction and operation of the three Solar Parks providing full energy production.
• More than 2,000 beneficiaries through training and awareness actions.
• Growth of membership, with over 70 women entrepreneurs participating in the cooperative.
• 15% increase in women’s participation in Greece’s green transition.
• Multiple awards, including the European Entrepreneurship Promotion Award 2022 and recognition at EUSEW 2022.