Supporting smart financing implementation for energy renovation of existing private and/or public buildings, investments in SMEs and the tertiary sector

Introduction

The overall aim of this proposal is to support smart financing implementation of energy efficiency investments. It expands the successful SMAFIN roundtables thematically by adding the tertiary sector and SMEs to the outstanding focus on buildings. Geographically, it welcomes Slovenia to the team alongside Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, and Romania.

Objectives

The proposal integrates the experience gained in the first phase and proposes ways to respond timely to the major challenges faced by the energy sector in recent years. Key objectives include:

1. Identifying gaps such as the need for deeper investigation of certain topics.
2. Ensuring privacy for certain stakeholders.
3. Employing thematic working groups.

Cross-Country Labs

Additionally, cross-country labs are launched to:

• Transfer know-how on energy efficiency financing.
• Introduce European practices across EU countries and beyond.
• Contribute to common responses to energy challenges.
• Strengthen collaboration in the wider Balkan region.
• Facilitate energy transition.

Stakeholder Engagement

The SMAFIN Expanded will enhance the structured dialogue and cooperation established in the first phase. It will gather a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

• Government authorities
• Local and regional authorities
• Financial sector representatives
• Energy Service Companies (ESCOs)
• Homeowners
• Industry sector representatives
• Construction sector representatives
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Consumer and citizen associations

Goals

The aim is to upgrade policy measures, develop or upgrade financial instruments, and support the development of large-scale investment programs that mobilize private finance for investments in energy efficiency.