“Taking the power into our own hands – literally.”
Who are you — and what’s happening at your lab?
Ifö Center is an artist-run cultural space inside 43,000m² of repurposed factory buildings in Bromölla. What started in 2014 as a small art project within the still-operating ceramics plant has grown into a vibrant, independent cultural hub. We host residencies, workshops, exhibitions, studios, and guided tours — all powered by our 300-strong artist collective.
What kind of local story are you part of?
We’re located in a post-industrial area facing social shifts, including factory closures and refugee resettlement. Our role is active — building connections, offering support, and creating space for new and long-term residents to meet, learn, and shape their futures.
What do you hope to achieve through Co-PED?
We want to turn cultural centres into energy producers. Our goal is to test the potential for sustainable energy at our site — reducing dependency, increasing financial autonomy, and building a model that other independent centres across Europe can follow.
How will you make it happen?
We’ll start with research and feasibility studies. Then: legal groundwork, permits, selecting contractors, and raising funds. Throughout the process, we’ll communicate clearly and share what we learn — so others can follow the path, too.
Who are your allies in all this?
We work with Region Skåne, Bromölla municipality, and we’re part of SWAN — Sweden’s artist residency network. We also collaborate with a wide range of artists and creatives. It’s all about finding partnerships that bring real value to everyone involved.
What kind of change do you want to see?
We want to make Ifö Center sustainable — environmentally and socially. That means cleaner energy, stronger local opportunities, and a more resilient cultural space that helps the community thrive in the long term.
And finally — your motto for Co-PED?
“Taking the power into our own hands – literally.”
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Co-PED investigates the potential of social and cultural centers as catalysts for positive energy districts, nurturing a just energy transition that includes local communities.
Co-PED is dedicated to inclusion and gender diversity and therefore implemented a gender and diversity policy
EUROPEAN PARTNERSHIP
Policy Analysis Report at regional, national, and European levels, assessing existing policies.
Policy Briefs at the intersection of cultural, real estate, urban development, and energy policies.
Policy Roundtable Events, including six events across the co-applicant countries.
Strategic Guidelines for municipalities on the implementation of energy communities.
Capacity Building and Training Program for policymakers and civil society, promoting energy justice.
Structuring Study for a European cooperative company, including articles of association and relevant legislation.
