Prosumer. Who are these aliens?

Prosum... what?

The concept of 'prosumer' is central to energy communities and represents a fusion of the roles of 'producer' and 'consumer' of energy. A prosumer is an individual or entity that not only consumes energy, but also produces renewable energy and shares it with other members of the community.

In the context of an energy community, prosumers can be the owners of photovoltaic plants, wind turbines, or other renewable energy sources. These prosumers generate electricity in a decentralized manner and can use it for their domestic needs. However, what sets prosumers apart within an energy community is their willingness to share the excess energy produced with other members of the community, instead of storing it or selling it to the market.

The idea behind the concept of prosumer is to promote the active participation of citizens in the production and management of energy. Prosumers become involved in decision-making about energy production and distribution within the energy community. They can participate in assemblies, meetings and contribute to the definition of community energy policies.

In addition, prosumers can benefit economically from their participation in the energy community. For example, they can receive financial compensation for the energy they share with other members of the community, or they can reduce individual energy costs by using energy produced within the community itself.

The prosumer concept is therefore a key element in promoting the decentralization of energy, the use of renewable sources and the active participation of citizens in the energy system. Allowing consumers to also become producers and active participants in the energy process can lead to greater sustainability, resilience and autonomy of energy communities.