Moldova modernizes social services with EU grants
Thirty-five civil society organizations (CSO) in Moldova each received grants of approximately €87,000 to modernize buildings where social services are provided.
They will implement energy efficiency measures like building insulation, installing modern heating systems, photovoltaic panels, and LED lighting.
The Ministry of Energy announced in a press release that the grants are part of the "Local Partnerships for Energy Efficiency in Social Services" project. It's funded by the European Union and implemented by Soros Foundation Moldova, in partnership with Keystone Moldova and Moldova's Social Innovation Fund.
The project officially launched with the signing of a Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Energy and Soros Foundation Moldova. This agreement sets the framework for modernizing social services infrastructure nationwide.
Daniela Vidaicu, Executive Director of Soros Foundation Moldova, said the EU-funded grants will enable the 35 organizations to significantly cut costs and improve the quality of life for hundreds of beneficiaries.
Moldova's first nearly zero-energy buildings
The 35 modernized public buildings will become Moldova's first Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings (NZEB) – a significant step toward aligning the country with European energy efficiency standards.
"This project transforms the Ministry of Energy's goals into realities directly felt by citizens: lower utility bills and higher-quality social services. It's a concrete step in our commitment to annually rehabilitate 3% of the public building stock," said Dorin Junghietu, Minister of Energy.
In addition to the modernization work, the project also includes campaigns to promote responsible energy consumption in local communities. This initiative directly contributes to reducing energy consumption, modernizing public infrastructure, and improving social services, bringing tangible benefits to citizens nationwide.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
