What happens to energy efficiency programmes when municipalities are ready to act, but financial and administrative decisions are delayed?

On 24 and 25 June in Gabrovo, the fifth edition of the discussion forum “Mayors Talk” will place this question at the centre of the conversation between local authorities, national institutions, financing organisations, experts and partners working for the sustainable energy development of Bulgarian municipalities.

This year’s edition of the forum will be held under the motto “Awaiting the Budget: Will We Find Solutions to Delayed Processes?” and will focus on the practical difficulties faced by municipalities in preparing and implementing projects for energy efficiency, building renovation and renewable energy sources. The event will seek answers to questions that are particularly important for local authorities today: what financing opportunities can be expected, how the implementation of programmes can be accelerated, how coordination between the state and municipalities can be improved, and how local policies can be supported with realistic instruments.

The first day will begin with examples from Bulgaria and a presentation of Gabrovo’s experience in implementing sustainable energy projects. The session will review the results achieved, the challenges encountered and the lessons learned from investments and local solutions. The forum will then continue with a discussion on national policies, the role of energy efficiency in the vision for sustainable energy development, financing instruments and programmes, as well as upcoming opportunities for the renovation of multi-family residential buildings.

In the following panel discussion, representatives of municipalities, SEDA and financing institutions will discuss the challenges in implementing energy efficiency programmes in public and residential buildings. The discussion will highlight the practical problems faced by local authorities, from project preparation and working with citizens to process management, quality of implementation and the need for clearer and more predictable support.

The second day will be dedicated to the role of cities and local authorities in sustainable energy development. The programme includes topics related to opportunities for Bulgarian municipalities to participate in European climate initiatives, financing municipal projects at European level, and the integrated approach to urban policies for sustainable development.

The forum will continue with practical presentations on project preparation and implementation, including requirements for contracting authorities in the design of zero-emission buildings, building renovation with prefabricated components, automation of heating, cooling and ventilation systems, innovative solutions in district heating systems, the application of geothermal energy, the development of renewable energy communities, and training opportunities for municipal experts and energy consultants in one-stop shops.

“Mayors Talk” will once again provide a space for direct dialogue between institutions and municipalities, with a focus on specific cases, working solutions and the conditions needed for local authorities to implement energy efficiency and sustainable development policies more successfully.

The event is free of charge, but prior registration is required here: https://forms.gle/Xr6RcJMb1y9Ukib48