On 1 September 2026, the International Raiffeisen Union participated in the regular “Jour Fixe” of German cooperative associations in Brussels. The meeting provided an opportunity for an open and constructive exchange with Member of the European Parliament Prof. Dr. Andrea Wechsler on current EU policy issues affecting cooperatives and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The meeting brought together representatives of the DGRV – German Cooperative and Raiffeisen Confederation, the German Raiffeisen Federation, the Federal Association of Cooperating SMEs, the Federal Association of German Housing and Real Estate Companies and the IRU.
The discussion addressed a broad range of topics currently relevant to cooperatives in Germany and across Europe. These included sustainability reporting, the future role of EFRAG, decentralised energy supply, the implementation of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), European packaging rules and the proposed new European corporate form “EU Inc.”
Particular attention was given to recent legal developments concerning customer installations and decentralised energy models. Current decisions by the European Court of Justice and the German Federal Court of Justice create considerable challenges for innovative supply models operated by energy, housing and commercial cooperatives. These include tenant electricity schemes, shared building supply and local neighbourhood solutions. Their financing through cooperative banks may also be affected.
The participating associations underlined the need for a workable European solution that preserves proven decentralised energy models and avoids unnecessary burdens for businesses and private households. Prof. Dr. Wechsler took note of these concerns and expressed her intention to continue supporting a viable solution during the further European legislative process.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of reliable transition periods, suitable financing instruments and technically feasible requirements when implementing the EPBD and other energy and climate legislation. Climate protection, investment capacity and affordable housing must be considered together. At the same time, energy cooperatives and local energy communities should receive stronger support regarding grid access, permitting procedures and financing.
From the IRU’s perspective, this joint dialogue is particularly valuable. Cooperation between associations makes the diversity and practical experience of the cooperative sector more visible and helps ensure that the cooperative business model is adequately considered in European policymaking.
The IRU thanks Prof. Dr. Andrea Wechsler for the open and constructive exchange and all participating colleagues for their close and trusted cooperation.
