A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Tool to Support Participatory Ranking of Regional Energy Priorities Under the EE1st Principle

Regional energy planning is crucial for supporting national and EU climate goals, given the escalating climate change impacts and the need for a sustainable energy transition. The EU policy framework considers energy efficiency as one of the key pillars to meet the EU's climate objectives, whilst more recently the revised Energy Efficiency Directive (EU/2023/1791) provides a stronger and wider legal basis for the application of the principle. Therefore, it is imperative to incorporate the “Energy Efficiency First” (EE1st) principle in regional and local energy planning, so that regional and local authorities prioritize energy efficiency investments over investments in energy production and new supply infrastructures. However, the practical implementation of the EE1st principle faces challenges, including the need for collaborative planning to optimize energy savings and production. The EU recognizes the critical role regions and local authorities can have in overcoming these challenges through local initiatives and stakeholder engagement. A participatory approach in energy planning, involving stakeholders and community members, fosters ownership and commitment to implement energy strategies. The REGIO1st project, co-funded by the LIFE programme, supports EU regions in adopting the EE1st principle and has for this purpose developed the REGIO1st Planning Framework and its supporting tools. The Framework aids regional energy planners in developing and implementing strategies aligned with the EE1st principle and regional needs. The REGIO1st Participatory Priorities Ranking (PPR) tool, integral to this framework, facilitates the identification and ranking of energy planning priorities via a participatory process. By using a multi-criteria decision-making approach, it ensures an inclusive and effective prioritization process and in parallel ensures stakeholders acceptance. Currently, the REGIO1st Planning Framework is being implemented in six European pilot regions, which are customizing this to their regional contexts, and are utilizing the REGIO1st tools. This paper explores the underlying principles, methods, and advantages of the REGIO1st PPR tool, within the framework of participatory energy planning, in line with the EE1st principle. It also presents findings from its initial implementation, highlighting its' advantages, the challenges encountered, and suggestions for further enhancement.