At the end of September (28-29.09.2022) representatives of PNEC took part in the exchange of experience with the Region of Crete. The exchange was organised within the REBUS project and focused on the current challenges related with the energy renovation of public buildings and possible solutions. The topics discussed included response to the COVID-19 pandemics and adequate adaptation of planned energy efficiency measures, as well as available funding schemes supporting buildings’ renovation, with the specific focus on regional operational programmes. An important topic mentioned was also the establishment of energy communities and engaging building users in local energy transition.

During the exchange, the Region of Crete presented the InteractInCrete project, financed under the ELENA mechanism of the European Investment Bank and the European Commission. The aim of the project is to facilitate and speed-up the maturing process of several energy projects in Crete. This project mainly focuses on the energy upgrade of the hospitals and health centers that have reached their peak of operation during the pandemic. Another important parts of the discussion focused on the establishment of energy communities, utilization of net-metering and virtual net-metering and their benefits for the members of an Energy Community, as well as the funding schemes that can be used for the implementation of such projects.

PNEC had also the chance to visit good-practice sites being examples of buildings integrating new and effective energy saving technologies. One of them was the Region of Crete’s seat, located at the heart of the city of Heraklion, which is an outstanding example of energy renovation of a historical building. The building has been upgraded to reach the maximum energy class. At the same time, its historical architectural elements have been protected. Other visited site was a new administrative building in the city, which is currently under construction and has been designed in accordance with the principles of bioclimatic architecture. The building integrates new technologies for energy efficiency and energy saving. The visit was an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences and gain new inspiration for the future Association's activities.