Energy efficiency measures have been inaugurated in a social housing building in the municipality of Malishevë, home to 25 families, including three female-headed households. The project is funded under the European Union’s emergency package for Kosovo, reports Ekonomia Online.
The Acting Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, stated that the investment was made possible thanks to the EU’s support following Kosovo’s 2022 request to address the energy crisis. The project aims to reduce energy consumption across all social strata, achieving an impressive 79% energy savings in this building.
“It is a pleasure to inaugurate the investment in this social housing building where 25 families live, including three female-headed households. In 2022, when we sought help from the EU to face the energy crisis, we received quick and cooperative support, including in project design. Our goal as a government has been to reduce energy consumption across the population and businesses. The energy savings in this building amount to 79% of the investment. Residents will benefit from a healthier environment without mold, warmer winters, and cooler summers. This is one of 28 buildings across 13 municipalities in Kosovo, funded through an EU emergency package of 6 million euros—90% by the EU and 10% by municipalities. We as a government are ready to increase funding for energy efficiency,” Rizvanolli said.
The EU Office in Kosovo representative, Alessandro Bianciardi, emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting Kosovo’s reforms and investments needed for decarbonizing the energy sector.
“We look forward to implementing the growth plan, reform agenda, and investment plan that will accelerate Kosovo’s transition towards clean energy and European integration,” Bianciardi added.
The Mayor of Malishevë, Ekrem Kastrati, praised the project as an investment that improves the quality of life for vulnerable social groups and significantly reduces energy consumption, calling it a “double benefit” for the municipality.
“Today we enjoy a privilege as we inaugurate a building for socially vulnerable groups who are in great need. It plays a significant role in improving their quality of life and reducing energy use. For us, these are two extraordinary benefits,” Kastrati said.
