“The EU must be able to produce energy in a more inclusive and affordable way, and European people must be able to play an active role, including in rural areas”: this has been stated by the European Economic and Social Committee, which is working at an opinion on the topic, while a few days ago a yearly conference was held on the issue of affordable energy supplies. Three areas have been identified that need to be worked on – consumer engagement, protection for vulnerable people, and sustainable investments – as well as a few essential measures. For instance, innovative solutions aimed at promoting an active role for all consumers, referring specifically to the role of energy communities, need to be developed. At the same time, vulnerable consumers and low-income households must be protected. And investment needs and potentially creating EU tools to fund the green transition cannot be neglected either. The figures show that energy poverty is still a concern, as it impacted 9.2% of Europeans. “Over 41 million of our fellow citizens still cannot keep their homes adequately warm”, Aurel Laurenţiu Plosceanu, Vice-President of EESC, pointed out. “Electricity prices, although lower than during the crisis, remain two to four times higher than those in our partner countries. This continues to put pressure on households and poses a real threat to the long-term competitiveness of European industry.”