On June 30, the state opened a call for applications with a budget of 8 million euros. The support is intended for local governments and state institutions that manage public buildings with cultural, architectural or historical value. It can be used to renovate thermal insulation, doors and windows and thermal technologies, upgrade heating, ventilation and automation systems, and install lighting and renewable energy solutions.

This measure will also receive support in the so-called second round. In the first round, 18 buildings received support, such as Pärnu and Sindi Town Halls, Kostivere Manor, Tammsaare House Museum and Haapsalu Cathedral. The aim of the support is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs - as a result of the work, the energy efficiency of the buildings must improve by at least 20%.

Specialists from the Ministry of Finance and RTK emphasize that investment in cultural heritage also creates value in the long term. According to Kaur Kajak, Undersecretary for Administrative Policy at the Ministry of Finance, it is planned to support 19,000 m² of heated public space and reduce carbon emissions by 287 tons per year through several application rounds. Anna Zolin, Head of the RTK Public Infrastructure Department, explains: “The grant can be used to insulate buildings, improve air tightness, and renew heating solutions. It can also be used to install ventilation or cooling systems, lighting, automation, and smart control devices. The primary goal of the work carried out with the grant is to reduce energy volumes and costs. This means that the energy efficiency of the building should improve by at least 20% as a result of the work.”

You can apply for a grant of up to 500,000 euros per project and up to 800 euros per square meter. The costs of research, design, construction, and heritage conservation inspections will not be covered. The source of support is greenhouse gas emission allowances and the state budget strategy; the implementation of the measure is coordinated by the Ministry of Finance, and the application process is carried out by RTK.

This round of support provides an opportunity to preserve historically significant buildings through modern energy efficiency solutions that help to keep maintenance costs down and extend the life of the buildings. If you manage such a building, it is definitely worth checking out RTK's e-support environment - it is a good opportunity to invest in the cultural heritage of your region and contribute to the green economy at the same time.