NEWS
The topics of challenges and practical solutions in the field of building renovation and improving their energy efficiency inspired the exchange of experiences and presentation of various strategies during the knowledge exchange event entitled “Building Renovation and Energy Efficiency. Synergies, strategies, and local success stories from the CEE region,” which took place on December 10, 2025, in Krakow. The event gathered representatives of local governments, experts, and practitioners from Poland and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe, creating a space for presenting the latest analyses, experiences, and inspiring examples of renovation. The focus was primarily on the challenges associated with the retrofitting of public buildings and the pursuit of ways to ensure that renovation processes lead to measurable energy and social results.
On 21-22 October 2025, the third meeting of the CETAC (Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centres) project partners took place at the Vilnius City Hall. This time, the event was hosted by the Lithuanian organisation Amiestas (Viesoji Istaiga “Atnaujinkime Miesta”). The project meeting, combined with a study visit, brought together representatives of partner organisations from the Czech Republic, Germany, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Romania and Ukraine. Poland was represented by representatives of our Association and the City and Municipality of Serock.
Sustainable and targeted climate action should be implemented locally, which requires substantial capacity of key actors – municipalities. Development of such capacities in partner municipalities in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is one of the key tasks of the LIFE23-CET-CETAC Project, aimed at establishing CETACs (Clean Energy Transition Assistance Centers). In CETAC Project, the capacity is built through trainings for the municipal staff. The trainings are a part of the extensive capacity building program, which includes theoretical training modules, practical sessions and study visits, along with a job shadowing component. Through this program, participants will gain different knowledge and skills needed to successfully establish and operate a CETAC.
Read more: Units of Learning Outcomes for CETACs to Support Municipalities in Climate Action
Local authorities directly emit approximately 4.8% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within their municipal areas. They are nonetheless uniquely positioned to lead the clean energy transition by engaging citizens and businesses and bridging the gap between policies, people, and practical solutions. The core challenge is transforming decarbonization targets into inclusive, collaborative, and concrete local action, ensuring no one is left behind in the clean energy transition.
Read more: Clean Energy, Shared Responsibility: How Municipalities Are Bridging the Gap
Augšdaugava Municipality, located in the Latgale region of southeastern Latvia, has joined the CETAC project (as a committed partner in driving sustainable change. With its diverse landscapes and strong community spirit, the municipality is taking an active role in ensuring that local citizens, businesses, and institutions can benefit from the opportunities of the clean energy transition. As part of this effort, Augšdaugava has developed its Clean Energy Transition Action Plan (CETAP), introducing initiatives designed to make energy efficiency and renewable energy more accessible to everyone.
Read more: Supporting the Clean Energy Transition in Augšdaugava Municipality
For several years now, the authorities of Vilnius have been implementing one of the most ambitious multi-apartment building renovation projects in the region. The Atnaujinkime Miestą initiative, based on the innovative One-Stop-Shop model, supports residents and housing communities in transforming old, energy-inefficient buildings into modern, energy-efficient, and sustainable homes. The scale of the challenge is significant – as many as 70% of Vilnius residents live in buildings constructed before 1995, most of which are in urgent need of renovation. The program is designed to meet these needs, improving not only energy efficiency but also the appearance and safety of the urban environment. This approach streamlines processes, shortens implementation time, and helps overcome administrative and financial barriers.
Read more: Effective Urban Modernization – The Atnaujinkime Miestą Program in Vilnius
On 6–7 May 2025, CETAC project partners met in Riga for the second consortium meeting, which took place at the welcoming premises of Riga Technical University. The two-day event offered an excellent opportunity to summarise the work done so far, collaborate during interactive workshops, and plan the next steps in the project. The first day began with a session dedicated to project management, led by the coordinator – SEVEn.
Read more: CETAC Partners Meet Again – This Time in Riga! | 6–7 May 2025
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