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Description
THE MAIN PROBLEM addressed by this project is the lack of capacity of the Municipality of Medulin as an applicant, and the company Med eko servis d.o.o. and Albanež d.o.o. as project partners, for the production of solar energy, which will be solved by achieving the SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE of the project, i.e. by increasing the capacity for the production of solar energy in the municipality of Medulin.
The project will install 7 photovoltaic power stations, i.e. implement 7 pilot projects that will consequently ensure an increase in solar energy production by 330,42 MWh /year and a reduction in annual CO2 emissions by 52,41 tons.
This will contribute to solving the general project problem of using technologies with increased carbon emissions and insufficient level of security of energy supply in the Republic of Croatia and achieving the overall goal of the project, i.e. contribute to increasing solar energy production in the Republic of Croatia.
TARGET GROUPS are the Municipality of Medulin, Med eko servis d.o.o., Albanež d.o.o. and their employees as well as partners from the donor country - Åpenhet AS.
Total project value is 408.109,80 EUR, and the estimated duration of the project is 24 months.
Summary of project results
The project "Increasing the capacity for solar energy production on public buildings of the municipality of Medulin" addressed several critical issues. The primary challenge was the rising greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector at both EU and national levels. The project aimed to reduce CO2 emissions and increase the use of renewable energy sources by installing photovoltaic systems. Another issue was the high investment cost of solar power plants, which limited their adoption, alongside the reliance on environmentally unfriendly and expensive energy sources. Additionally, there was a lack of capacity within the municipality and project partners to produce solar energy, compounded by insufficient energy security. The overarching goal was to enhance the energy independence of the municipality while contributing to national and EU climate goals. These efforts aligned with Croatia’s Energy Development Strategy, the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan, and the EEA Energy and Climate Change Program.
The project implemented several key activities to achieve its objectives. Seven photovoltaic power plants were installed on public buildings, including schools, kindergartens, sports halls, and offices of municipal partners. The total installed capacity reached 0.234 MW, with an expected annual production of 330.42 MWh of solar energy. A project team managed the activities, including procurement, supervision, and installation of the systems. To raise awareness, the project conducted workshops and public events, involving stakeholders such as NGOs, citizens, and municipal representatives. A Norwegian partner, Åpenhet AS, contributed expertise through a study trip to Norway, where participants learned about innovative renewable energy solutions. The project also included promotional activities, such as creating a dedicated section on the municipal website, publishing updates, and producing a final report to share results.
The project achieved significant outcomes that benefited multiple stakeholders. Seven pilot solar power plants were installed with a total capacity of 0.234 MW, generating an estimated 330.42 MWh of solar energy annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 52.41 tons per year. Public institutions such as schools and municipal offices gained improved energy efficiency and lower electricity costs, enhancing their financial sustainability. Local residents and NGOs benefited from workshops that raised awareness about renewable energy solutions, empowering them to consider similar initiatives. The study trip to Norway provided project team members with valuable knowledge and best practices, which were shared with their organizations to enhance future projects. The broader community benefited from reduced reliance on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to environmental and energy security goals.
Summary of bilateral results
Having a donor project partner, Åpenhet AS from Norway, provided significant benefits to the project. The partnership enriched the project by offering advanced knowledge and expertise in renewable energy. Through the study trip and workshops, Norwegian experts shared their practical experience, which helped participants understand innovative approaches and best practices in solar energy systems. This collaboration also enhanced public awareness and provided valuable tools for effective communication about renewable energy. The bilateral cooperation achieved important results. The study trip to Norway offered participants a chance to observe cutting-edge solar energy technologies and implementation strategies. This experience improved local expertise in managing and promoting renewable energy solutions. Furthermore, the partnership strengthened ties between Croatian and Norwegian institutions, laying the groundwork for future collaborations in sustainable energy development. The knowledge and relationships established during the project have opened opportunities for further joint initiatives. These future collaborations may focus on advanced solar technologies and innovative solutions tailored to local contexts, particularly for sensitive cultural or environmental areas. The partnership aims to build on the achievements of this project and contribute to long-term sustainability efforts.