Renewable energy communities: A multi-criteria framework for socioeconomic impact assessment

Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) have emerged as transformative solutions that combine technological innovation with participatory governance. Existing studies focus mainly on techno-economic aspects, and limited attention has been given to their broader socio-economic impacts (SEI). This paper aims to identify these impacts and propose relevant Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for their assessment. This study proposes a theoretically grounded and expert-informed framework for the selection of KPIs based on the Triple Bottom Line paradigm to assess the environmental, social, and economic impacts of RECs. The methodology combines Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) with two rounds of expert consultation conducted through questionnaires. Respondents assessed each indicator using an MCDA matrix based on five criteria: relevance, measurability, comprehensiveness, benchmark ability, and availability/familiarity. Scores were assigned on an ordinal scale, and composite scores were calculated by averaging across respondents for each criterion. Indicators meeting the threshold criteria (relevance ≥ 0.7; all other criteria ≥ 0.5) were retained, resulting in 17 indicators selected for expert validation and KPI dashboard development for REC SEI assessment. The framework is then applied to a single REC case study in Italy through a semi-structured interview to provide an illustrative validation of its applicability. The KPIs serves a dual purpose: as an ex-post impact evaluator that can reflect the realized benefits and challenges of REC projects, and as ex-ante decision support system that guides planning and policymaking. This study offers robust managerial insights and a versatile evaluation methodology, supporting sustainable energy strategies, particularly within the context of EU actions toward a greener future.