Inspiring Stories that Build Better Lives

The Sociale EnergieSprong project in Hoeselt, Belgium, exemplifies how industrial innovation, strong social commitment, and people-centred policies can transform social housing. By focusing on speed, affordability, and sustainability, this initiative establishes a bold benchmark for tackling the challenge of an aging housing stock while providing meaningful benefits to both residents and the environment.

Salzburg, Austria – The Wir inHAUSer project in Salzburg, Austria, showcases how innovative and people-centered approaches can transform housing into a foundation for better, more sustainable lives. Through collaboration, inclusivity, and ambitious planning, the project has become a beacon of what is possible in the fight against energy poverty, housing inequality, and environmental degradation.

In the face of intersecting crises—climate change, housing shortages, and economic instability—projects like Fiorita Passive House demonstrate how ambitious policies and innovative design can build better lives for residents and communities alike. Located in Cesena, Italy, Fiorita Passive House is a groundbreaking project: the first multi-apartment building in Italy certified to the Passive House Institute standards in Darmstadt, Germany.

Viladecans, SPAIN – The Vilawatt Project, located in Viladecans, Spain, offers a comprehensive approach to tackling climate change, energy poverty, and social inequality through the energy transition. As an Urban Innovative Action (UIA) project, Vilawatt exemplifies how collaborative governance, innovative financing, and citizen engagement can transform vulnerable communities into resilient, energy-efficient districts. This initiative highlights the power of ambitious policies and local action in addressing urgent socio-economic and environmental crises.

The Opengela project in the Basque Country, Spain, is a groundbreaking example of how urban renovations can address energy efficiency, social equity, and economic challenges simultaneously. Neighbourhood offices or Opengelas are spreading throughout most Basque municipalities, especially in neighbourhoods with an ageing housing stock.

POLAND – In the face of rising energy costs, climate breakdown, and outdated housing stock, Polish communities are proving that bold, people-powered solutions can deliver lasting change. From small towns to rural areas, residents, local innovators, and small businesses are leading a quiet revolution—turning once energy-hungry buildings into comfortable, self-sufficient homes.

Athens, GREECE – The Hellenic Passive House Institute Across Europe, inefficient buildings drive carbon emissions, deepen energy poverty, and trap millions in unhealthy living conditions. In Athens, Greece, the Tavros Project is proving that deep renovation can deliver affordable, climate-friendly housing while uplifting communities. In the face of climate breakdown,

Bottrop, GERMANY – The InnovationCity Ruhr project in Bottrop, Germany, is a standout example of how district-level renovations can address climate challenges while improving residents’ quality of life. With a focus on energy efficiency, inclusivity, and innovation, this project highlights the transformative potential of ambitious policies. Three core aspects define its success: ramping up renovation rates, fostering inclusive governance, and leveraging diverse stakeholder collaboration to drive innovation.

The Progetto Energheia in the Piedmont Region, Italy, is a transformative model for sustainable urban renewal, combining advanced energy efficiency measures with innovative governance systems to create energy communities. This initiative demonstrates how ambitious collective action can reduce energy consumption, enhance affordability, and foster social inclusion, serving as a replicable model for tackling energy and housing challenges across Europe.

Rome, ITALY – The transformation of a former military base in Rome into a vibrant, sustainable social housing project exemplifies the power of innovative and inclusive urban regeneration. By repurposing an abandoned yet historically significant structure, this initiative prioritises affordability, sustainability, and community cohesion. Through a participatory co-design process, residents and stakeholders have been actively shaping the project’s future, which combines heritage preservation with forward-thinking housing solutions.

Burgas, BULGARIA – Habitat for Humanity International, Municipality of Burgas and EnEffect

Energy poverty is a crisis affecting millions across Europe, forcing families to choose between heating their homes and meeting other basic needs. The Community Tailored Actions for Energy Poverty Mitigation (ComAct) project in Burgas, Bulgaria, is proving that this does not have to be the case. Through an ambitious, community-driven approach, ComAct has made energy-efficient renovations more accessible, affordable, and impactful for vulnerable households.

Paris, FRANCE – Paris Habitat & Charles-Henri Tachon Agency

The Caserne de Reuilly project in Paris is a transformative urban regeneration initiative that demonstrates how historic sites can be repurposed to meet modern needs while promoting sustainability and affordability.

Bordeaux, FRANCE – Bordeaux metropolis
The Grand Parc Bordeaux project stands as a powerful example of how ambitious collective action can build better lives for residents while tackling climate, housing, and economic challenges. Located in Bordeaux, France, this innovative refurbishment has transformed 530 social housing units originally built in the 1960s, into modern, comfortable, and energy-efficient homes.

Brussels, BELGIUM – Foyer Schaerbeekois
The Colonel Bourg social housing project in Schaerbeek, Brussels, is a beacon of innovation in the pursuit of affordable, energy-efficient housing. Managed by Foyer Schaerbeekois, this initiative uses social housing as a model for decent, affordable and energy-efficient homes for all by implementing ambitious passive building standards while ensuring access to the most vulnerable.