On September 20, 2024, an important forum titled “The Future of Smart, Energy-Efficient, and Affordable Housing” took place in Jūrmala, Latvia. The event gathered experts from EU member states, the European Commission, and Latvia to discuss pressing issues related to housing availability, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The forum also addressed financing options and highlighted innovations and well-being factors that can improve living conditions.
Energy efficiency measures – closer integration with market instruments
One of the main topics at the forum was the implementation and financing of energy efficiency measures. Experts unanimously emphasized the need for closer collaboration between government support programs and free-market instruments to enhance the effectiveness of these measures. Expanding the range of available solutions would create more diverse opportunities for building renovation and improving energy efficiency. It was noted that while current methods have been effective, future progress will require even stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors.
The role of information and education in promoting energy efficiency
Forum participants agreed that centralized information dissemination and education are critical prerequisites for the successful implementation of energy efficiency measures. Information campaigns and educational programs would help citizens better understand the benefits of energy efficiency and encourage greater involvement in sustainable housing initiatives. Coordinated efforts were proposed to ensure a unified flow of information and to foster widespread awareness among the public.
The need for coordinated financing approaches
Another key topic of the forum was the necessity of coordinated financing approaches for sustainable housing development. Discussions underscored that achieving sustainable and energy-efficient housing requires diversified financing sources. EU funds, private capital, banks, and one-stop-shop agencies could collaborate to create a comprehensive funding model. Such an approach would ensure successful project implementation and better coordination among the various stakeholders.
The role of the private sector in energy efficiency measures
Forum participants also stressed the importance of private financing in improving energy efficiency. Private sector involvement is crucial for the development of energy-efficient housing, and creating an environment that encourages private investment in this area is essential. The availability and initiative of private capital could significantly accelerate the implementation of energy efficiency measures and provide the resources needed to enhance housing sustainability.
Jānis Ikaunieks’ participation in the discussions and REVERTER Project
Jānis Ikaunieks from the Riga Energy Agency (REA) also contributed to the discussions, sharing insights on the agency’s work as well as the activities implemented in the context of REVERTER project. This project focuses on improving energy efficiency and has delivered significant results, which were highlighted as a positive example of how effective action can promote sustainable development. The activities carried out within the REVERTER project serve as a model for future initiatives in Latvia and across Europe.
Challenges and next steps in housing renovation in Latvia
Jānis Ikaunieks from the Riga Energy Agency (REA):
“Latvia offers various support instruments for building renovation at the national, municipal, and EU levels. In Riga, a comprehensive building renovation support program is already in place. However, future attention must be directed toward reducing energy poverty, ensuring that vulnerable and low-income groups can participate in renovation processes and are not adversely affected by them. Currently, approximately 6,000 buildings in Latvia require renovation. However, it is not feasible to renovate all of them at once due to a lack of resources and capacity. Therefore, renovation work must begin with buildings in the worst technical condition and those with the lowest energy efficiency. The renovation process is slowed by bureaucracy, so improvements are needed in procedures to make support more accessible and to accelerate building renovations.”
Conclusions
The forum “The Future of Smart, Energy-Efficient, and Affordable Housing” highlighted several important trends and opportunities for improving housing availability and energy efficiency both in Latvia and across the European Union. Discussions emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation between the public and private sectors and improve coordination between different financing sources. These efforts are essential for ensuring more efficient and sustainable housing development in the future.
Photo Credit: Jānis Saliņš