More information
Description
Project SuSTainable addresses the problem of low shares of energy production from renewable sources in the City of Split, especially from solar energy. In Split, as well as in the whole of Croatia, electricity is the primary form of energy used, with the highest consumption taking place in the building sector. Split is predominantly supplied with electricity from hydropower plants, and like the rest of Croatia, it records significant losses in the distribution network. In the Split area, there are only a dozen integrated solar power plants which are mostly smaller power plants on private houses, while only five power plants with a total capacity of around 150 kW have been installed on larger business facilities. Split is located in the area of average annual radiation of 1500 kW/m2, thus being in one of the most favorable areas in Croatia for the use of solar radiation for electricity production. In this context, the project goal is to install integrated photovoltaic power plants on 14 public buildings owned by the City of Split to use solar energy and increase the production of electricity from renewable sources. The project will result in an increase in electricity production from renewable energy sources by 795 MWh per year, reduction of CO2 emissions of 186 tons per year, ensuring the stability of electricity supply, increasing energy independence of facilities and thus mitigating climate change. In this way, the City of Split will increase the installed capacity of renewable energy sources in public facilities in its property and achieve savings in energy consumption. Project team members, as well as other experts (entrepreneurs, economic entities, individuals) by participating in project activities, will strengthen capacities for management and promotion of renewable energy sources, while facility users and the general public will be informed about the project effects and raise awareness of the benefits of renewable energy sources.
Summary of project results
The project "SuSTainable" aimed to solve several key issues, such as increasing the capacity for solar energy production, reduction of CO2 emissions, optimization of energy costs, as well as education and promotion of RES.
Within the project 14 photovoltaic power plants on public buildings were installed. Also project helped diversify energy sources, which is crucial for sustainability and energy independence. By installing solar power plants, that reduce the need for energy from the grid, the project contributes to a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, which is in line with global climate goals. The installation of solar panels makes it possible to reduce energy costs for public institutions, which frees up funds that can be used for other purposes. This improves financial sustainability and reduces the burden on the budget. Also, within project several professional events and workshops were organize, with the aim to spread knowledge and best practices in the field of renewable energy sources.
The "SuSTainable" project therefore successfully addresses key challenges within the "Energy and Climate Change" Programme, contributing to energy efficiency, emission reduction and sustainable development.
The project "SuSTainable - Increasing the capacity for solar energy production on public facilities owned by the City of Split" included a number of key activities that were carried out successfully and in accordance with the planned deadlines:
-Installation works of photovoltaic power plants were carried out at 14 public buildings, including primary schools, kindergartens and sports halls. These works included the installation of solar panels, the installation of a system for converting solar energy into electricity, as well as connecting the system to the necessary infrastructure. After successfully completed tests, all installed photovoltaic power plants were put into operation. Certificates of permanent operation for all installed systems were issued after the power plants became functional.
- As part of information and communication activities, various promotional materials such as banners, brochures, etc. were created. A video was also made about the "SuSTainable" project, which shows the goals and achievements of the project in detail. Key promotional activities were organized, including a stakeholder networking round table and workshop, and the final project conference. These activities enabled the exchange of experiences and the strengthening of capacities for the management and promotion of renewable energy sources. Web publications and info days were regularly prepared to inform the public about the progress and results of the project.
The project "SuSTainable - Increasing the capacity for solar energy production on public facilities owned by the City of Split" achieved several key results with an important impact on the target groups:
0.64 MW of photovoltaic power plants were installed on 14 public buildings, which enables the annual production of 795.06 MWh of solar energy and the reduction of CO2 emissions by 186 tons per year. Public facilities (schools, kindergartens, sports hall) achieve significant savings in energy costs, and the city of Split improves air quality and reduces its ecological footprint.
Round tables and workshops were organized for the exchange of knowledge about renewable energy sources and promotional materials were created. Experts and institutions gained a better understanding and experience in the management of RES, while the public and entrepreneurs became more aware of the importance of solar energy. Also,
Energy costs for public facilities have been reduced, and cost monitoring mechanisms have been established. The city of Split uses the savings to improve infrastructure and services, improving financial sustainability.
The "SuSTainable" project significantly contributes to sustainable development, reducing emissions and improving environmental conditions in Split.