For Ukraine, this experience is more relevant than it may first appear. The word “cooperative” still carries negative associations because Soviet and post-Soviet practices often distorted the concept. But genuine cooperatives are not bureaucratic relics. They are democratic, member-owned organizations created so people can meet common needs under fairer conditions than the market often provides.

In energy, this means that a community can jointly invest in a solar plant, a biogas facility, a battery system, a local heating solution or backup power for critical infrastructure. The benefits do not disappear upward. They remain in the community: more reliable energy, local income, jobs, taxes, lower costs and a stronger sense of control over essential infrastructure.