After a year of technical and administrative procedures, the Lasne Renewable Energy Community (CER) has been operational since mid-summer. This pioneering initiative, the first of its kind in Wallonia to bring together a significant number of individuals, allows owners of photovoltaic panels to sell their surplus electricity to neighbours who do not have them, at an advantageous rate for both parties. The CER, promoted by the European Union, aims to develop renewable energies while providing economic benefits to its participants.
The principle is simple: 'producers', who have installed panels on their roofs (from 2024 onwards), sell their renewable energy directly to 'consumers', i.e., residents without such panels. This sale, without commercial intermediaries, is conducted at prices lower than those of traditional suppliers. In Lasne, a Walloon municipality with over 1900 photovoltaic installations for approximately 14,000 inhabitants, the CER comprises 2/3 consumers to 1/3 producers, a proportion considered ideal for maximum electricity sharing.
The establishment of this CER required considerable time and perseverance, with the support of a specialized company, Helios. Managed by the non-profit association LASNENERGIE, it began exchanging kilowatts on July 29th. An initial assessment of the savings achieved, theoretically estimated between €50 and €100 per year for the community's current size, will be evaluated at the end of the year. Gains are maximized by increased consumption during daylight hours.
To ensure its success and inspire other municipalities, the Lasne CER aims for rapid growth. The more participants there are, the greater the amount of electricity shared and the savings on bills will be. Beyond financial benefits, the project highlights a strong community and climate dimension, with residents collaborating locally to promote solar energy.
To join LASNENERGIE, registration is required, including filling out a few documents and the free installation of a smart electricity meter by an ORES technician. For more information, contact the municipality at 02/6341806 or via email at cer@lasne.be.
