Since the Altum program for improving the energy efficiency of apartment buildings was launched in 2016, more than 1,300 buildings have been insulated in Latvia.
"At least two-thirds of the buildings should be insulated, yes. Most of them should be renovated! Another question is how many of them would be appropriate and financially viable to renovate because of their technical condition. Secondly, are these buildings located in a place where there will still be economic activity and where people will live?" said Mārtiņš Auders, Director of the Housing Policy Department of the European Commission.
Jelgava is one of the most populated places in the country. Currently, 44 buildings have been renovated in the city, which is 10% of the buildings managed by the Jelgava Real Estate Authority.
"People think that everything will happen in a few months. Not so! It is completely different. From the first meeting, when the apartment owners make a decision, to the commissioning of the building, it can take several years," said Oļegs Kukuts, Technical Director of the Board.
The EM pointed out that by 2026, another 266 houses in Latvia are planned to be insulated.
In order to involve more residents, not only is the next support program worth €170 million being developed but there are also plans to reduce the bureaucratic burden on residents.
"Firstly, we are allowing future participation in the program with a simple energy certificate and there are fewer inspections under this program. And then, outside the program, we also have the idea to do away with the complicated establishment of associations. So the associations of apartment owners could get loans directly from commercial banks," said Martins Auders, Director of the Housing Policy Department of the Ministry of the Environment.
The proposals have now been forwarded to the Ministry of Justice for clarification in amendments to the law, which could be approved next year.
