Successful Local Energy Communities (LEGs) show what's possible. In this article, we present three detailed case studies of successful LEGs in Switzerland and show what we can learn from them.
Case Study 1: Zurich Solar Community
Project Overview
Location: Zurich, Urban Area
Established: 2023
Members: 50 households
Capacity: 120 kWp solar panels
Legal Form: Cooperative
Results
Energy:
- Production: 120,000 kWh/year
- Self-consumption rate: 85%
- CO2 savings: 30 tons/year
Economic:
- Energy cost reduction: 35%
- Average savings: 600 CHF/year per household
- ROI: 8 years
Community:
- Member satisfaction: 95%
- Active participation: 80%
- Turnover: <5%/year
Success Factors
- Strong Community Building: Regular events, active communication
- Professional Management: Used digital platform
- Transparent Prices: All costs visible, democratic price setting
- Technical Quality: Modern facilities, reliable maintenance
Case Study 2: Alpine Hydropower LEG
Project Overview
Location: Alpine Mountain Village, Graubünden
Established: 2022
Members: 80 households + 5 companies
Energy Sources: Solar (50 kWp) + Small Hydropower (100 kW)
Legal Form: Cooperative
Results
Energy:
- Total production: 200,000 kWh/year
- 100% renewable energy
- Energy independence achieved
Economic:
- Energy cost reduction: 45%
- Additional revenue for producers
- Investment return: 12%
Common Success Factors
All Three LEGs Share:
- Strong Community: Engagement and communication
- Transparency: Open data and decisions
- Technical Quality: Modern, reliable facilities
- Professional Management: Used digital solutions
- Long-Term Perspective: Patience and continuity
What Can You Learn?
For New LEGs
1. Plan Right from the Start:
- Define clear vision
- Observe legal foundations
- Use professional support
2. Build Community Early:
- Start member acquisition
- Transparency from the start
- Establish communication
3. Technical Quality:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the most important success factors?
Top 3:
- Strong community
- Transparency and communication
- Professional management
How long does it take for an LEG to become successful?
Typically:
- First successes: 6-12 months
- Stabilization: 2-3 years
- Long-term success: 5+ years
Next Steps
Learn from successful LEGs?
- Study success factors: Learn the principles
- Establish or optimize LEG: Implement best practices
- Use Upgrid: Professional support
- Network: Exchange with other LEGs
Successful LEGs show: It works!
Related Articles:
- Success Factors for Energy Communities: Lessons Learned
- LEG Community Building: How to Attract and Retain Members
- LEG Governance: Decision-Making and Organizational Structure
- Upgrid Success Stories 2025: Real LEG Participants Share
About Upgrid: Upgrid supports LEGs in becoming among the most successful in Switzerland. Visit Upgrid.ch for more information.