Mind the gap: Community member perceptions of shortcomings in diversity and inclusivity of local energy projects in Germany

Germany's Energiewende aims to have 80 percent of the nation's electricity generated from renewables by 2030. One promising approach to building acceptance lies in the involvement of citizens by collaboratively determining and creating CE projects. Through an idealistic lens, CE reflects energy democracy of, by, and for the people. However, CE projects in Germany have faltered for years. While structural causes undoubtedly exist, another crucial reason lies in the project structure. We found that membership is not proportionately represented and members hold divergent attitudes towards CE. We conclude that more diversified projects for various groups of participants should be promoted.