The HarvRESt project has been running for over a year now and in connection with that we asked the HarvRESt project manager, Diego Redondo Taberner from CIRCE, to give an update on the progress made so far and what is to come looking forward.

The HarvRESt project continues to progress steadily, with important developments shared during the III General Assembly, held in Rome on 19–20 February 2025. Partners presented a rich variety of insights and results from their respective work packages, highlighting the project’s multi-actor foundation and its dedication to transforming agro-communities through renewable energy systems.

Mapping best practices and socio-economic analysis

Comprehensive mapping of best practices and existing initiatives for integrating renewable energy sources (RES) at farm level, alongside a socio-economic analysis conducted across all use cases has concluded. Extensive interviews and surveys helped to define the context and challenges of RES adoption in rural areas.

Characterisation of the use cases through a participatory approach provided valuable input into the project’s strategy. Furthermore, the development of a robust set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) was completed, and local working groups have been established to support future trials and data collection. These outputs are instrumental in ensuring that project activities remain grounded in real-world needs and stakeholder expectations.

Advancing stakeholder engagement and community building

In parallel, HarvRESt’s strategy for stakeholder engagement and cooperative community building has advanced. The first version of the multi-actor engagement strategy has been rolled out, and awareness-raising campaigns have begun in all pilot regions. Warm-up events have initiated direct contact with local actors, supported by communication materials and guidelines. The financial framework is also under construction, with a catalogue of available mechanisms and incentives being developed in collaboration with partners. Additionally, a comprehensive capacity-building programme is being shaped to support knowledge transfer and the adoption of RES practices by local farmers and stakeholders.

Analysing the impact of RES technologies on agriculture

Moreover, efforts have centred on analysing how RES technologies affect agricultural production, especially regarding soil quality and circular practices like bio-digestate application. Experimental field and laboratory campaigns are underway to assess nutrient recovery, emissions, and crop performance. In addition, digital services to assist farmers in understanding and managing their bioenergy potential are been developing in Denmark. These digital tools will support ongoing decision-making at the local level while reinforcing HarvRESt’s goals of environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

Developing AI models and optimisation tools

For the modelling and optimization of renewable alternatives AI-based forecasting models for renewable generation at the farm level are being built, using historical and operational data from several use cases. A technology library is also being compiled, which will support the development of the Agricultural Virtual Power Plant (AVPP). Alongside this, efforts to design hybrid system models that simulate energy, agricultural, and financial flows on farms are advancing well. These tools will support more effective planning and resource management for agro-communities across Europe.

Laying the groundwork for broader impact

Finally, for laying the groundwork for broader impact and visibility, key recommendations for policy and business model replication are been preparing, ensuring that lessons learned are transferable across regions. In parallel, new partnerships and networking efforts have been initiated through EU platforms, and the project’s involvement in the Horizon Results Booster marks an exciting step toward joint exploitation strategies. Upcoming “Practice Abstracts” will help share knowledge with both scientific communities and end-users.

Looking ahead

As HarvRESt enters its next phase, the focus remains on continuing pilot activities, refining KPIs, scaling engagement and training, and expanding the project's influence across Europe. The upcoming months promise valuable insights and stronger connections with the farming community and energy transition stakeholders.