In August 2025, SUPERSHINE was represented at Denmark’s Klimafolkemødet, where European Green Cities (EGC) showcased the project’s results at a dedicated stand. The highlight was a samtalesalon (dialogue session) addressing energy poverty and the need for a socially just green transition.
SUPERSHINE at Klimafolkemødet 2025: Dialogue on Energy Poverty and Social Justice
In August 2025, SUPERSHINE was represented at Denmark’s Klimafolkemødet, where European Green Cities (EGC) showcased the project’s results at a dedicated stand. The highlight was a samtalesalon (dialogue session) addressing energy poverty and the need for a socially just green transition.
Findings from the Dialogue
- Energy poverty is multidimensional. It takes many forms – from high bills to inadequate insulation – and requires context-specific solutions. SUPERSHINE’s lighthouse pilots in Trieste, Herning, and Riga demonstrate how diverse local challenges can be met with tailored strategies.
- Citizens are agents of change. Engagement depends on trust and access to knowledge. Examples such as tenant democracy initiatives in Copenhagen (Øbro95) show how residents can co-create renovation priorities.
- Social networks matter. Families, neighbours, and communities are central to building resilience. SUPERSHINE’s Community Days in Riga highlighted the importance of combining peer-to-peer support with institutional trust.
- Blind spots must be addressed. Cooling poverty and demographic barriers often remain overlooked. SUPERSHINE’s adaptive solutions in heritage buildings in Trieste are examples of innovative responses.
- Integrated approaches are essential. A just transition requires combining technical, financial, and cultural solutions. SUPERSHINE embraces this through the New European Bauhaus principles of sustainability, inclusion, and beauty.
The dialogue raised crucial questions: Who takes responsibility for households experiencing energy poverty? How do we ensure social justice in climate policy? SUPERSHINE continues to explore these questions, linking technical innovation with social inclusion across Europe.
By: Rasmus LT Hedegaard
Cover photo credit: European Green Cities
