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

• Energy efficiency upgrades in up to 30 kindergartens across Chisinau
  
• Expected 55 per cent energy savings and 3,165 tonnes CO₂ reduction annually
• Project combines EBRD loan, grants, and private sector innovation

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting the City of Chisinau with an €11.5 million loan to finance a comprehensive energy efficiency programme targeting public buildings, specifically kindergartens.

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. The loan was signed by Head of Moldova Giuseppe Grimaldi and Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban.

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 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 per cent, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving indoor comfort for nearly 10,000 children and 1,500 staff.

Beyond environmental benefits, the project will introduce advanced energy management standards, including energy audits and performance certification. It will also incorporate Energy Performance Contracts, fostering private sector involvement and innovation in the delivery of sustainable solutions. The initiative is aligned with the Paris Agreement and classified as 100 per cent green finance.

The project will bring substantial energy savings (of more than 46,000 gigajoules a year, or 55 per cent of the total bill) and reduce carbon emissions by 3,165 tonnes a year. These improvements will not only enhance resource efficiency and reduce pollution but also contribute to better health and well-being for the city’s youngest residents.

The EBRD, Moldova’s largest institutional investor, provides major support for Moldovan energy, including energy efficiency. Support levels have increased since the start of Russia’s full-scale war on neighbouring Ukraine in 2022. Notably, in July, the Bank lent €400 million to safeguard Moldova’s energy security by financing gas and electricity purchases, underlining EBRD’s commitment to the country’s energy resilience.

The EBRD remains committed to supporting Moldova’s green transition and urban sustainability. By investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy, this project demonstrates how targeted interventions can deliver long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits.