Conclusions and Key Findings on the Integrated Local Energy Community Concepts and Related Applications

This chapter presents the conclusions and key findings on the integrated local energy community (ILEC) concept and related applications, by arguing on the lessons learned through the previous chapters of the book. The aim of the book is to discuss in a thorough and comprehensive way all the critical aspects that are needed when designing, planning, and operating an ILEC from end to end, thereby contributing to the methodological progress needed to foster a massive deployment of this innovative energy paradigm. To this end, all transversal aspects related to ILECs are treated in the book starting from the analysis of policy framework related to the deployment of multi-carrier energy systems (MCESs) and conceptualization of ILEC with key actors and technologies, to the development of innovation approaches on investment decisions, optimal planning in the long term but also operational analysis in both medium term and short term. Critical issues and barriers for ILECs deployment are also analyzed, along with the definition of guidelines and recommendations for their optimal implementation. A key focus on the social innovation related to energy communities' deployment is also included.