The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing the City of Chisinau with an €11.5 million loan to support a comprehensive energy efficiency programme focused on public buildings, particularly kindergartens. This initiative is part of Chisinau’s participation in the EBRD’s flagship Green Cities programme, which aims to make urban areas more sustainable and liveable. The loan was signed by Giuseppe Grimaldi, Head of Moldova at the EBRD, and Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban. The programme will implement energy efficiency upgrades and rehabilitation works in up to 30 kindergartens, with EBRD financing covering 18 of these buildings.

The total project cost of €31.1 million will be supported by 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. Planned improvements include thermal insulation, modern heating and ventilation systems, upgraded lighting and water supply, replacement of windows and doors, and the installation of renewable energy solutions such as photovoltaic panels and solar thermal systems. These measures are expected to achieve average energy savings of around 55 per cent, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve indoor comfort for nearly 10,000 children and 1,500 staff.

Beyond energy savings, the project will introduce advanced energy management standards, including energy audits and performance certification. Energy Performance Contracts will be implemented to encourage private sector participation and innovation in delivering sustainable solutions. The initiative is fully aligned with the Paris Agreement and is classified as 100 per cent green finance. The project is projected to save more than 46,000 gigajoules of energy annually, representing 55 per cent of the total energy bill, and reduce carbon emissions by 3,165 tonnes each year. These improvements will enhance resource efficiency, lower pollution levels, and contribute to better health and well-being for Chisinau’s youngest residents.

The EBRD, as Moldova’s largest institutional investor, has been a key supporter of the country’s energy sector, including energy efficiency programmes. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale war in neighbouring Ukraine in 2022, the Bank has increased support for Moldova, including a €400 million loan in July to secure energy supplies for gas and electricity. This underscores the EBRD’s commitment to strengthening Moldova’s energy resilience. Through this investment, the EBRD continues to support Moldova’s green transition and sustainable urban development. By combining energy efficiency and renewable energy measures, the project demonstrates how targeted interventions can deliver long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits for cities and their communities.