New energy efficiency project launched in Ukraine

The Ukrainian cities are competing to participate in a new international energy efficiency project Municipal Energy Reform Project (MERP). Client: U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Contractor: International Resources Group (IRG). Project cost is 14.5 million USD, project duration - 4 years, the Information-Analytical Bulletin of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine informs.

To participate in the project, contestants should apply before Feb. 7, 2014. Some 15 cities will be selected in total with a population of 100,000 - 1 million citizens. Project goal is to improve the energy security of Ukraine, to increase energy efficiency, to introduce energy-saving technologies, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to attract private investment in the industry, developers say.

For that, according to experts, individual action plan for each participant city will be developed. It will be based on an energy audit, a detailed review of energy management. The experts will develop techniques for monitoring and verification of energy savings, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, economic efficiency of efforts.

Accordingly, individual action plans for each city will include measures to improve urban energy infrastructure and energy efficiency at social institutions and in homes.

In the framework of the project,  international experts will assist in attracting funds from international financial institutions (IFI) to be used to implement certain project activities. They will also help with preparation of feasibility studies and other project activities, including identification of investment projects and organization of effective municipal management.