Digital Energy Communities

How can we work together to reduce energy use in our homes while contributing to a more sustainable society? That is the core question of the project Digital Energy Communities for Sustainable and Resilient Energy Habits in Housing Associations.

The project is developing a digital platform based on the ElectriCITY model to help housing associations save energy in a simplified and engaging way. By combining behavioral science, user-friendly design, and AI-based recommendations, residents are supported in changing their energy habits.

The project aims to:

• Reduce energy use in selected areas by up to 20%

• Lower household energy consumption by 7% and peak loads by 20%

• Increase knowledge and engagement around energy issues in housing associations

• Create a solution that can be scaled and implemented in more associations across the country

Many housing associations want to improve energy efficiency but lack the time, resources, or proper tools to do so. Previous initiatives, including those in Hammarby Sjöstad, have shown that the potential for energy savings is substantial when residents collaborate. Through a digital platform, engagement can be maintained between meetings and lead to long-term results. The model connects all associations within a neighborhood and helps them implement ElectriCITY’s successful experiences. By combining structure, expertise, and communication, the project facilitates data-driven decisions among both boards and residents.

This two-year project is a close collaboration between LocalLife, ElectriCITY, and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). The platform is being co-developed with residents in the two pilot areas, Hammarby Sjöstad and Finnboda, where several housing associations will test and refine the solution. By integrating behavioral design, AI technology, and local collaboration within a digital platform, the project promotes both environmental goals and financial benefits for residents. The KTH-developed AI tool “Spara”, which provides smart and personalized energy-saving tips, will be connected to the platform. Development, testing, and evaluation will take place to enable scaling and national dissemination of the solution.

The project is mainly funded by the Swedish Energy Agency, with support from LocalLife, and is carried out in close collaboration with researchers, companies, non-profit organizations, and residents.

Results will be shared through seminars, training sessions, social media, and publications. The ambition is to create a business model and dissemination materials that make it easy for more housing associations to join in and contribute to the green transition.