Saving energy and promoting renewable energy source

Key facts

Programme Operator:
Ministry of Environment
Programme ID:
PL04
Status:
In implementation
Date of approval:
Total amount:
€144,150,000
EEA Grants fund:
€75,000,000
Norway Grants fund:
€ 69,150,000

Currently available funding

Programme Summary

Why is the programme needed? In order to fulfill the goals of reduced greenhouse gas emission, an increasing share of the energy supply must come from renewable energy sources. However, if energy demand keeps increasing, it will be difficult to meet increased energy needs with renewables alone. Reducing energy consumption and eliminating energy wastage are among the main goals of the EU. In accordance with the climate and energy package adopted by the European Parliament, the aim is to improve energy efficiency by 20%. This target is to be achieved by 2020. The benefits of energy efficiency extend far beyond achieving reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing demand for fossil fuel helps reduce other environmental problems such as poor urban air quality, acid rain and eutrophication. What will the programme achieve? The objective is to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants and increase the share of renewable energy in energy use. The programme will support projects that will improve energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy solutions in buildings. This will increase energy saving and the use of renewable energy sources, which in turn will result in reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to climate change related impacts, it also has economic and social impacts. Economically by reducing energy consumption and related to that lower energy costs. Socially through improved working conditions for those who work or study in buildings affected by improved energy efficiency measures, as well as through improved air quality and better and healthier environment. How will it be achieved? The programme will support projects that will deliver results on: - Improved energy efficiency in buildings; - Increased renewable energy production in relation to buildings; - Increased awareness of and education in energy efficiency. How will bilateral relations be strengthened? The programme contains a substantial allocation under the bilateral fund, €1 323 529, and thereby wide-ranging opportunities for bilateral cooperation. The Ministry of Environment and the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management will prepare a strategy on the use of the bilateral fund in cooperation with the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE). This will assure a beneficial use of the funds with the aim of strengthened bilateral relations. What are the partnership opportunities? The Ministry of Environment manages the programme on behalf of the Polish authorities and therefore plays a key role in facilitating networking and cooperation between Polish and Donor state entities. Further details on partnership opportunities will be provided through a strategy on the use of the bilateral fund by March 2013. Who can apply for funding under this programme? Public entities and private entities providing public service in Poland are eligible to apply as project applicants. Project support will be in the range of €170 000 – €3 000 000.