Fostering energy communities’ engagement: the role of empowerment and hedonic motivations

Abstract Non-technical summary Energy communities allow people to produce, share, and manage renewable energy together, helping reduce carbon emissions and decentralize the energy system. Their success, however, depends on whether citizens are willing to participate. This study explores what drives people to engage in these communities, especially the influence of positive emotions and the feeling of empowerment. By surveying Portuguese citizens, the research shows that joy and empowerment significantly increase interest and participation in energy communities. These insights can help policymakers and practitioners create more engaging and citizen-centred sustainable initiatives. Technical summary Energy communities play a key role in advancing decentralized and low-carbon energy systems by placing citizens at the centre of energy production and management. Yet, their effective implementation depends on citizens’ willingness to engage. This study examines the determinants of citizens’ behavioural intention to participate in energy communities, with particular emphasis on hedonic motivations and empowerment. To do so, a conceptual model integrating the Hedonic-Motivation System Adoption Model (HMSAM) and empowerment theory was developed. Data were collected through an online survey administered to Portuguese citizens, yielding 307 valid responses. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the proposed relationships. The results show that empowerment significantly moderates the effect of joy on behavioural intention, strengthening both the intention to participate and overall engagement in energy communities. These findings highlight the importance of positive emotional experiences and perceived control in motivating sustainable behaviours. The study provides practical guidance for policymakers and practitioners seeking to enhance citizen engagement, suggesting that fostering empowering and emotionally rewarding experiences can support the development and successful uptake of energy communities. Social media summary Empowerment and joy boost citizen engagement in renewable energy communities.