Due to cheap and secure supplies, traditionally there has been little focus on energy efficiency in the former Soviet countries. Even since gaining independence there has been little movement to develop energy efficiency strategies, supported by appropriate policies. 

Indeed for public institutions, in particular, current policies in Moldova are a disincentive to energy efficiency and cost savings, since lower costs can lead to budget cuts. An additional obstacle to public institutions and the public alike is the lack of awareness about technologies and best practices available to help them cut their energy bills.

This project aims to help change this by developing municipal energy efficiency (EE) strategies, addressing regulatory issues, developing a system for monitoring energy use, and preparing feasibility studies. The project will also organize competitions and trade fairs and prepare information materials to encourage energy efficiency and promote best practices and EE technologies.

As a pilot project one public building will be restored to increase its energy efficiency and serve to demonstrate the savings potential.  

For more information, please consult the project website of Chisinau Municipality.