The paper examines the development and operational dynamics of a renewable energy cooperative (EC) in Poland, specifically focusing on the "Our Energy" EC in the Upper Silesian region. The study employs a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis, to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the cooperative. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, with the cooperative leading in energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC include expanding membership, increasing photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study emphasizes the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives, but also notes the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions focus on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. The study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insights into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development.The paper examines the development and operational dynamics of a renewable energy cooperative (EC) in Poland, specifically focusing on the "Our Energy" EC in the Upper Silesian region. The study employs a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis, to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the cooperative. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, with the cooperative leading in energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC include expanding membership, increasing photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study emphasizes the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives, but also notes the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions focus on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. The study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insights into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development.