Sunflower Project - Renewable Energy- Science and Technology

The aims of the project are;

The promotion, dissemination and implementation of good practice examples of Renewable Energy Sources and their contribution to Local Sustainable Development
Increasing the ratio of popular involvement in the project and thus start a long and durable "community energy vision" in line with European energy climate targets.

Sunflower aims to create the necessary conditions to attract investment in renewable energy projects characterized by a large RES potential but insufficient mass to attract industry. The test regions are Moura (PT), North York Moors (UK), Sliven (BUL) and various Czech regions. The project will focus on: political commitment, market stimulation and environmental awareness. The main objectives are:

Local authorities to trigger interest to build renewable energy powered plants
Attract renewable energy industry to the regions and increase the number of business partnerships formed between investors and local (or regional) authorities
Train recent graduates or young entrepreneurs in local markets and help to create new enterprises
Increase the ratio of popular involvement in the project and thus start a long and durable "community energy vision" in line with European energy climate targets

Achievements include:

Significant investment and over 60MW of electricity generation from a variety of renewable sources ranging from the largest solar photo-voltaic plant in Europe to small community ventures

The involvement of political decision makers from all levels of government and society

International and national conferences held and knowledge about renewable energy markets shared

Investment in Science and Technology Parks

New businesses created

Clear guidance on creating small and medium renewable energy businesses produced

Initiatives carried out in schools and study tours and training events arranged for young graduates leading to the creation of renewable energy businesses

Stakeholder involvement