IRENE project marks one year promoting inclusive energy renovation

The EU-funded initiative aims to combat energy poverty in vulnerable households through residential building renovation.

Generic image of large irrigation pipes being installed on red earth under the sun.
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Generic image of large irrigation pipes being installed on red earth under the sun.

The IRENE project, focused on promoting fairer, more affordable, and inclusive energy renovation for vulnerable households, has reached its first year of activity.

The initiative, in which the Research Group on Construction Systems and Buildings of the IETcc participates, is funded by the European Union's LIFE programme and brings together ten organizations from four European countries. Its main objective is to combat energy poverty through the inclusive renovation of residential buildings and the improvement of inhabitants' living conditions.
During this first year, IRENE has implemented a participatory methodology that includes local diagnostics, identification of renovation barriers, analysis of energy poverty indicators, and joint design of strategies tailored to the specific needs of each territory.
The project is being developed in four pilot cities: Madrid, Leuven, Vilnius, and Vilvoorde. Actions already carried out include resident interviews, citizen participation activities, and the creation of the so-called Energy Justice Hubs.
Through these actions, IRENE aims to contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered energy transition.
Based on information from the official source: Instituto Eduardo Torroja de Ciencias de la Construcción (CSIC) (21/10/2026)