1. Introduction & Objective of the Call
The Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE) has opened a call for proposals aimed at financially supporting:
– Self-consumption Configurations for the Sharing of Renewable Energy (CACER);
– and the establishment of Renewable Energy Communities (CER).
The objective is to promote the shared production of energy from renewable sources, also integrated with storage systems, encouraging collective self-consumption in small municipalities.
2. Recipients
The following can access the contribution:
– CACER configurations;
– regularly established Renewable Energy Communities;
– located in municipalities with a population of less than 5,000 inhabitants.
3. Eligible Expenses
The following items are eligible for funding:
– construction of RES plants (systems and components);
– storage systems;
– machinery, hardware and software;
– necessary construction works and connection to the grid;
– pre-feasibility studies, design, investigations, construction management, safety, testing, consultancy (up to 10% of total expenses).
4. Type and Intensity of Contribution
– Non-repayable contribution equal to 40% of eligible costs, within the PNRR Mission 2, Component 2, Investment 1.2, with resources of 2.2 billion euros.
– Incentive tariff on virtually self-consumed energy: between €60/MWh and €120/MWh, with an increase of up to +€10/MWh for photovoltaic systems depending on the geographical area.
5. Time Limits and Progressions
– Applications open: from July 21, 2025 (3:00 PM) to November 30, 2025 (6:00 PM) via the GSE SPC portal.
– Construction deadlines: works to be completed by June 30, 2026; plant operation within 24 months of the end of the works, and in any case no later than December 31, 2027.
6. Innovations Introduced by the CACER Ministerial Decree (May–July 2025)
– Extension of beneficiary municipalities up to 50,000 inhabitants thanks to Decree no. 127/2025.
– Possibility of an advance payment of up to 30% of the contribution for plants ≤ 200 kW, up to an intermediate 40% for 200 kW-1 MW, or 100% balance.
– Retroactivity of the new rules also for projects already underway, and cumulation with other incentives without penalties.
7. Specific Requirements
– Allowed plant power: up to 1 MW;
– The CERs must include only SMEs as participating companies and provide for social-delocalized use of energy surpluses in the premium tariff.
– Connection in areas served by the same GSE/ARERA primary cabin and compliance with the DNSH (Do No Significant Harm) principle.
8. Procedural Procedure
1. Legal constitution of the CER or CACER before the application;
2. Submission of technical documentation in the SPC app via the GSE portal;
3. Investigation by GSE (within approximately 90 days), followed by ministerial concession decree and registration with the Court of Auditors.
9. Expected Benefits
– Concrete support for local energy self-production;
– Reduction of bills for community members;
– Positive environmental and social impacts, thanks to participation among private individuals, SMEs, and local authorities, and the possibility of allocating bonuses to social purposes or vulnerable areas.
Conclusion
The CACER/CER call represents a strategic opportunity for municipalities and local communities wishing to invest in renewable energy, social responsibility, and sustainability. The 2025 changes make access more inclusive and flexible, supporting the development of virtuous projects throughout Italy.
For assistance with planning, legal incorporation, and application submission, Colletta European Consulting is available to offer technical and regulatory support and project development. Contact us at: info@collettaconsulting.eu
