A large-scale investment program promises renovation of residential buildings by 2029

Within the framework of the "Mayors Speak" forum, held in Gabrovo, extensive details about the national energy efficiency strategy were presented. Among the key participants were Vice Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev, Mayor Tanya Hristova, and representatives from central and local authorities, as well as international partners from European countries.

The official information, presented by Dora Yankova, reveals a large-scale investment plan that includes funds from multiple financial sources. The program covers the Recovery and Resilience Plan, the Just Transition Fund, the Regional Development Program 2021-2027, and the second stage of the National Energy Efficiency Program.

Currently, 1,038 projects have been approved, which will provide an opportunity for about 150,000 Bulgarian citizens to modernize their homes. Specifically for the Gabrovo Municipality, renovations of 24 residential blocks are planned, including 807 apartments with a total built-up area of 77,000 sq. m and an investment of 22.5 million leva.

The first national program has already generated nearly 5,000 citizen associations, with 1,968 residential blocks successfully renovated. Under the new Recovery and Resilience Plan, 3,006 associations have applied, of which 660 overlap, demonstrating significant public interest in such initiatives.

Starting from July 1, payments to municipalities for signed energy efficiency contracts will begin. Initially, around 33 million leva are planned, with the main part covering the costs of technical passports and energy audits, which were a mandatory condition for application.

The second stage of the National Program, with a budget of 2.5 billion leva until 2029, will start by the end of the current year. Methodological guidelines are currently being developed in collaboration with the National Association of Municipalities, with the main goal of simplifying administrative procedures.

Yankova emphasized the need for special attention to small settlements, where not a single renovation project has been approved in 103 municipalities so far. Market consultations are upcoming to determine reference prices that take into account the inflationary processes of 2023.

In the future, a more comprehensive approach to housing renovation is emerging, which includes not only thermal insulation but also comprehensive energy management, accessible environment, green measures, and improvement of surrounding spaces.