The energy markets from a small scale consumer perspective: the CRETA experience

When small consumers, like local authorities, try to approach the electricity world too often they face problems rather than great opportunities. Purchasing electricity in the liberalized market, trying to adhere to energy savings projects or planning new renewable energy plants are great initiatives but often with low probability of concrete realization. For this reason, the Power System Research Group of the University of Calabria has founded CRETA, a coalition of local authorities and small companies, sharing its manifold expertise in energy field. CRETA is a non-profit organization with the mission of mobilizing, educating, informing and allowing its members to change the way they use and think about energy. CRETA works together and for its members, carrying on many projects, some concerning energy purchase in the liberalized market, energy savings in road lighting and renewable plants planning. In the paper, final results and business plans of the main CRETA activities are made available.