New blockchain platform enables European citizens to co-own solar parks and receive cash in returns
Filip Koprčina, young Croatian innovator who founded start-up that allows individuals to earn a profit while contributing to a clean energy future, announced as a finalist in the upcoming EU Sustainable Energy Awards.
More than 1,000 early investors will soon be the proud owners of a solar power plant, standing to reap financial returns of 10-15% annually while reducing carbon emissions. With a combined anticipated investment of EUR 1 million via the Energy Shift platform, founder Filip Koprčina, 25, is realising his goals of boosting solar energy production and democratising the green energy transition. Filip and his team use blockchain technology to offer citizens the chance to invest in green energy with fixed returns, while holding decision-making power over its operations.
“I wanted to show that the choice between making money and having a positive impact on the environment is a false dichotomy,” says Filip, “citizens who invest in these solar projects can expect greater returns than they would receive if their money was in a bank. The amount of energy we will save from the investments committed to date is equal to charging 17.5 million smartphones.”
A committed environmentalist and one of Croatia’s recently named 30 revolutionaries bringing change to the country, Filip will deliver up to 1MW installed solar capacity with the potential to power 370 households in the near future through Energy Shift.
“The project actually came to be because I wanted to install solar panels at my parents’ house in Croatia. This proved to be more difficult and costly than anticipated,” explains Filip. “While looking for an inexpensive way to get reliable renewable energy to power our house, I had the idea of a business model where individuals jointly invest and co-own renewable energy projects.”
Starting a business combining renewables and tech was a natural step for the entrepreneur. Having developed a passion for clean energy from an early age, Filip has been involved with numerous environmental organisations and is currently raising awareness about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals with the European Solidarity Corps in Cyprus, where he resides. With the early investors only, Filip’s Energy Shift platform will allow to reduce up to 137kg of carbon emissions per year, per solar panel installed.
In addition to being accepted to the Youth Sustainable Energy Hub, Filip has secured funding for Energy Shift from the European Institute of Technology’s (EIT) Digital's Venture Programme and recently gained recognition by the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution label, which recognises his project as a financially viable response to tackling climate change. Filip also lends his expertise as a member of the United Nations’ High Level Dialogue on Energy as a Technical Working Group member. With his work on Energy Shift, Filip is bringing the EU closer to the 2030 targets.
Filip in Vancouver, Canada on a Clean Energy Ministerial, where I was selected as 1 of 50 youth delegates from around the World, and one of 15 European delegates ©Filip Koprčina
Filip connecting solar panels while working in a solar installation company, on an Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs exchange program funded by the EU ©Filip Koprčina
European youth take action to shape a sustainable energy future
Filip Koprčina is one of three finalists shortlisted for the EU Sustainable Energy Awards 2021 in the Young Energy Trailblazer category. The award recognises outstanding activities carried out by young people (under 35) which advance the clean energy transition in Europe and inspire ambitious climate and energy action. The two other contenders in the category are Merve Güngör and Daniele Novara.
Merve is in charge of communications at EKOenergy, an ecolabel recognising sustainable energy in order to encourage consumers to engage with the green energy transition. Daniele is the CEO and founder of Easy Hydro, which aims to commercialise modular, inexpensive and reliable water turbines.
EU Sustainable Energy Awards recognise champions of 2030 climate and energy targets
Twelve outstanding individuals and projects are highlighted at the EU Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) 2021 for their innovation in energy efficiency and renewables. Finalists were chosen from a list of the year’s most successful projects for clean, secure and efficient energy. The awards have four categories - Engagement, Innovation, Woman in Energy and Young Energy Trailblazer – as well as the Citizen’s Award, which will be received by one of the projects in the first two categories. Prizes will be awarded by an expert jury (for Engagement and Innovation), and by citizens via a public vote, which is now open until 22 October. The five winners will be announced on Monday 25 October during EUSEW 2021.
EUSEW 2021
EUSEW 2021 runs from 25 to 29 October 2021, under the theme ‘Towards 2030: Reshaping the European Energy System’. Taking place ahead of the decisive COP 26, the event brings together energy policy experts, industry leaders, academia and civil society representatives to discuss how forward-looking policies for decarbonisation, energy efficiency, climate mitigation, and many others comprising the European Green Deal, can help rebuild a better and more resilient society and economy.
EUSEW 2021 is held as an online event once again, with more opportunities than ever to connect, engage, network and reflect on the biggest issues in clean energy in Europe and beyond.
Registrations for participants and for media are now open.
For interview requests with the EUSEW 2021 Award finalists or additional media information, please contact [email protected]