EBRD backs Chisinau’s ambition for greener, energy-efficient kindergartens

On 22 January, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) announced that it will support Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, with a €11.5 million loan to finance a comprehensive energy efficiency programme targeting public buildings, specifically kindergartens.

The project will deliver energy efficiency upgrades and rehabilitation works in up to 30 kindergartens, with EBRD financing covering 18 of these buildings. Complementary funding includes a €7 million investment grant, a parallel €11.5 million loan from the European Investment Bank, and a €1.1 million contribution from the City of Chisinau, bringing the total project cost to €31.1 million.

The planned measures include thermal insulation, modern heating and ventilation systems, improved lighting and water supply, replacement of windows and doors, and the installation of renewable energy solutions such as photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. 

These interventions are expected to deliver average energy savings of around 55%, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving indoor comfort for nearly 10,000 children and 1,500 staff.

The project will bring substantial energy savings (of more than 46,000 gigajoules a year, or 55% of the total bill) and reduce carbon emissions by 3,165 tonnes a year. 

Chisinau is part of the flagship EBRD Green Cities programme, making targeted investments to make cities more liveable. The investment falls under Chisinau’s Green Cities Action Plan, promoting sustainable and energy-efficient urban development and addressing climate mitigation.

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Press release