There is a growing number of initiatives in Europe, supporting renewable energy produced near consumption. Communities, municipalities and regions are increasingly seeking energy independence. This ongoing energy transformation brings further decentralization of energy production and consumption. Decentralization is one of the key features of the ongoing transformation and also its biggest challenge. It requires a change of attitude and thinking. An important element of decentralization are so called "renewable energy communities" supported by the Revised Renewable Energy Directive (2018/2001/EU). The directive now gives individuals or communities a right to generate, save, consume or sell selfgenerated energy. What are the perspectives of renewable energy development in Czechia, Austria, and the EU? Can decentralized energy systems help reach the renewable energy targets? What are the specific options for municipalities and regions? What are the approaches in other countries and can it be replicated in Czechia?