Astana, Kazakhstan – More than 120 researchers, scientists, representatives of research institutes, universities and other organisations working in the field of sustainable energy gathered at the regional workshop “Horizon Europe in Central Asia: Promoting Research Excellence and Collaboration for Sustainable Energy”.

The event was organised jointly by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network of Kazakhstan, Nazarbayev University, Science Fund of Kazakhstan, the European Union (EU) funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” and Chevron.

Horizon Europe is the European Union’s (EU) framework research and innovation programme, which provides funding for projects in the EU Member States and the third countries, including Central Asian republics. Total 33 projects and 47 organisations in Central Asia have already benefited from participation in Horizon Europe and its predecessor Horizon 2020.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the programme and, in particular, its Cluster 5 “Climate, Energy and Mobility”, as well as opportunities it offers for the research community in the region. It showcased funding schemes, projects and initiatives that match the priorities of stakeholders in Central Asia. The national and international speakers presented how Horizon Europe can support addressing current challenges related to the climate change and the need to promote and develop sustainable energy.

Addressing the participants, Ms Aliya Sembayeva, Deputy Chairman of Science Fund JSC, said: “International collaboration plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges like climate change and ensuring sustainable energy, as these issues surpass geographical boundaries”.

Ms Ilze Purina, SECCA Key Expert, added: “The events like this help to build a network of researchers and professionals to maximise the impact of Horizon Europe in Central Asia and present them with a unique opportunity to harness the power of networking, collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing across borders. The EU’s SECCA project will continue assisting the countries of the region in the creation of pre-conditions and building capacity for more active participation in the Horizon Europe programme”.

Workshop materials

Astana, Kazakhstan – Representatives of the academic and research community from the countries of Central Asia, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as of the European Union (EU) gathered at  Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Conference, which was held at Nazarbayev University.

The event was organised by SDSN Kazakhstan jointly with the Science Fund of Kazakhstan, Nazarbayev University, the EU’s “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” project, and Chevron.

In his opening address, Mr Kestutis Jankauskas, the EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan, said: “This Conference marks an important step in strengthening the relationship between the European Union and the Central Asian countries in research and innovation. The challenges we face today are global in nature and require collective action. Whether it is combating climate change, transition to sustainable energy or accelerating the digital transformation, no single nation can tackle these issues alone. Researchers and innovators from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan stand to benefit greatly from participating in Horizon Europe. I encourage all to actively engage in the opportunities offered by Horizon Europe. Let us seize this chance to work together, learn from each other, and create a better, healthier and more sustainable future for all”.

The participants discussed research priorities and collaboration opportunities within the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, Sustainable Development Goals localisation and climate action, public opinion research on sustainability.

Within its scope of work, the SECCA project aims to strengthen capacity of CA institutions to participate in Horizon Europe programme, as well as to strengthen cooperation between universities in the CA region.

The Conference was followed by the workshop “Horizon Europe in Central Asia – Promoting Research Excellence and Collaboration for Sustainable Energy”.

Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan – More than 70 delegates from Turkmenistan, the European Union (EU) and other countries of Central Asia gathered at the International Conference “Climate change – challenges and solutions for sustainable energy” today to share experiences in the implementation of sustainable energy policies in practice.

The Conference was held within the EU–Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days 2024 (SEDs) campaign and was organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, Turkmenbashi city administration, the EU through its project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated development of green cities in Ashgabat and Avaza”.

The event gathered energy experts, policy makers, researchers, representatives of civil society, international organisations, and international financial institutions. It provided an action-oriented forum to share experiences and best practices, including based on the lessons learned by EU Member States and Energy Community Contracting Parties

Addressing the participants of the Conference, Ms Enejan Kakaeva, representative of the Ministry of Energy, said: “Sustainable energy is one of the driving forces behind economic development, the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and plays a huge role in mitigating climate change. Recognising the role of sustainable energy plays in today’s society is of paramount importance. To achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it is necessary to ensure the rational use of natural resources, develop sustainable production and consumption patterns, and create sustainable energy infrastructure. Sustainable energy is the basis for ensuring social and economic well-being, ensuring a healthy lifestyle and raising living standards. The adoption of the new Law of Turkmenistan “On Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency” is a decisive step towards sustainable energy. In developing this law, the EU’s SECCA project together with the UNDP project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan” provided assistance to the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, in particular, technical support in studying international best practices in promoting energy saving and energy efficiency. The International Conference “Climate Change – Challenges and Solutions for Sustainable Energy” will be a platform for sharing experience and discussing areas for further co-operation”.

H.E. Ms Beata Peksa, EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan, reiterated the EU’s support and said: “Transition towards sustainable energy is not only desirable but imperative for combating challenges posed by climate change and supporting the well-being of current and future generations. Cooperation and dialogue are essential in this regard. The European Union welcomes the Turkmen Government’s multifaceted approach to advancing sustainable energy through policy reforms, improvements in energy efficiency, and fostering international partnerships. Let me take this opportunity and reaffirm the EU’s commitment to accelerating the just energy transition in Turkmenistan. Through collaborative efforts, Turkmenistan and the EU can work together to unlock the full potential of clean energy and drive positive socio-economic and environmental outcomes”.

The participants of the Conference reviewed the evolution of the EU climate change mitigation policies and practical application of EU best practices in Central Asia. They discussed the European and international experience in improving energy efficiency in buildings and industry, as well as integrated solutions for promoting renewable energy.

In addition to the Conference, a series of lectures were held for the students of higher educational institutions in Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi, and the Environmental action for the schoolchildren along with the EU Award Ceremony “The Most Energy Efficient School” took place in Turkmenbashi, as part of the EU–Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days.

Background:

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects. Website: www.secca.eu.

UNDP project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated development of green cities in Ashgabat and Avaza”. The objective of the project is to significantly reduce the negative effects of urban growth in Turkmenistan and simultaneously achieve the goals of social and economic development. To this end, the project provides technical assistance, organizational and political support, the organization and development of programs, as well as the promotion of behavior change in combination with national priorities and specific needs formulated by the Government. The measures introduced in Ashgabat and Avaza have led to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and social benefits in themselves, as well as creating the basis for replication in other regions of Turkmenistan.

The Energy Community is an international organisation which brings together the European Union and its neighbours to create an integrated pan-European energy market. Its key objective is to extend the EU internal energy market rules and principles to countries in South East Europe, the Black Sea region and beyond on the basis of a legally binding framework. The Energy Community has nine Contracting Parties: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, and Ukraine.

The EU–Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader EU–Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of all national stakeholder groups and the broader public in the region on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan: Aygul.BASHIMOVA@eeas.europa.eu.

Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan – The European Union (EU) Award Ceremony “The Most Energy Efficient School” was held today in Turkmenbashi, as part of the EU–Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days 2024 (SEDs).

School № 10 was recognised as the most energy efficient among the public schools of the city. The School teachers, students, parents, the representatives of the EU, the UNDP in Turkmenistan, Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, and Turkmenbashi city administration gathered at the event to celebrate the School’s achievement.

H.E. Ms Beata Peksa, EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan, said: “This European Union Award is, first and foremost, the recognition of the teachers’ invaluable contribution to developing children’s skills in careful and rational use of natural resources, and protecting the environment and the Planet. I wholeheartedly congratulate the School, its teachers and students for this outstanding achievement. Spread the word and inspire others. Tell your relatives, friends, neighbours to save energy. By using energy more efficiently, we build a brighter and healthier future for all of us”.

The Award Ceremony was followed by the environmental action for schoolchildren. It involved an introductory lecture titled “Nature is our common home”, mini-sports competitions and a bicycle ride to promote environmentally friendly mobility, and the tree planting ceremony, during which children and the esteemed guests planted trees together, thus, doing their bit to greening Turkmenistan and contributing positively to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The SEDs campaign takes place in Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi from 27 April to 3 May 2024 and aims to raise awareness on energy efficiency, renewable energy and the interlinkage between energy and climate change among the national stakeholder groups and the broader public, including youth and schoolchildren.

The events within the campaign are held by the EU through its project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)”, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated development of green cities in Ashgabat and Avaza”, and with the support of the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, and Turkmenbashi city administration.

Background:

The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, environment and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

The EU-funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” (from March 2022 to March 2026) aims to promote a sustainable energy mix in the Central Asia region in line with EU best practices. To fulfil its mission, SECCA strives to provide for strengthened and more inclusive policy, regulatory and institutional framework for the transition to a sustainable energy system, within a regional context, and focuses on contributing to the fulfilment of international human rights commitments in CA countries, including equal access to energy, and supporting gender inclusive policies and legislation for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). The project activities include capacity development for EE and RE deployment, awareness raising on EE and RE, and improving investment climate for EE and RE projects. Website: www.secca.eu.

UNDP project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated development of green cities in Ashgabat and Avaza”. The objective of the project is to significantly reduce the negative effects of urban growth in Turkmenistan and simultaneously achieve the goals of social and economic development. To this end, the project provides technical assistance, organizational and political support, the organization and development of programs, as well as the promotion of behavior change in combination with national priorities and specific needs formulated by the Government. The measures introduced in Ashgabat and Avaza have led to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and social benefits in themselves, as well as creating the basis for replication in other regions of Turkmenistan.

The EU–Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days is part of the broader EU–Central Asia Sustainable Energy Days campaign. Its purpose is to enhance the awareness of all national stakeholder groups and the broader public in the region on the significance, benefits and accessibility of sustainable energy.

For additional information, please contact Mrs Yelena Serebrennikova, Communication strategist, SECCA, email: media@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77019814020, Mrs Nurgul Smagulova-Dulic, Digital Communication Expert, SECCA, email: nurgul.smagulova@secca.eu, WhatsApp: +77012066760, or the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan: Aygul.BASHIMOVA@eeas.europa.eu.

Astana, Kazakhstan – The Second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the European Union (EU) funded project “Sustainable Energy Connectivity in Central Asia (SECCA)” convened in Astana today. Officials from the countries of Central Asia (CA), members of the PSC designated by their respective governments, and representatives of the EU gathered at the event.

The PSC meeting, convened once a year, is an important event for the stakeholders to come together and discuss the project progress and the way forward.

SECCA is a four-year project and has recently passed the midpoint of its implementation timeline. During the meeting, Team Leader Mr Paata Janelidze and Key Expert Ms Ilze Purina presented a comprehensive update on the status of project activities, highlighting achievements and outlining a work plan for the next 6-month period.

The participants discussed the provided update, expressed confidence in the SECCA’s trajectory and commended the project experts for their efforts and hard work.

Mr Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Kazakhstan concluded: “SECCA is successfully working in Central Asia. We highly appreciate the interest and involvement of all partners in the beneficiary countries. This PSC meeting has reaffirmed our shared dedication to building a cleaner, more connected energy future for the region”.

Meeting materials

Turkmenistan – The SECCA project team visited Turkmenistan from 11 to 20 March 2024 and held a series of meetings with the state and international partners in Ashgabat, as well as the workshop and the international conference in Mary.

The Turkmen government prioritises improving EE. In Ashgabat, the project experts met with the representatives of the Ministry of Energy to discuss further cooperation on the steps to enhance EE, develop the renewable energy sector and raise awareness about sustainable energy.

As part of the visit, the Training workshop “International practice in implementation of innovative EE technologies and Energy survey” was held in Mary on 13-19 March 2024. The participants, among them the faculty members and students of the State Energy Institute, national and international energy experts, reviewed the international, European and Central Asian countries’ experience and best practices in implementation of innovative EE technologies in the electric power industry, buildings, transport sectors, as well as methodology and objectives of conducting residential and public buildings energy surveys.

On 18 March 2024, the International Conference “Prospects for introduction of green innovative energy efficiency technologies in the electric power industry of Turkmenistan” took place with participation of the industry professionals from Turkmenistan, the EU, and other countries of Central Asia. The delegates discussed the European and international practices in implementation of green EE technologies in the electric power industry and certification of passive public buildings, as well as and RE development paths in Turkmenistan.

Both of these events were organised jointly by the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, the SECCA project, and the UNDP Project “Sustainable Cities in Turkmenistan: Integrated Green Urban Development in Ashgabat and Awaza”.

Global energy consumption continues to rise, driven by factors such as population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation, and economic development. Efforts to improve energy efficiency are critical for managing global energy consumption and addressing sustainability challenges. By reducing the amount of energy needed to provide goods and services, energy efficiency measures can help decouple economic growth from energy consumption, enabling societies to achieve their development goals while minimising environmental impacts.

Improving energy efficiency is essential for achieving sustainable development goals, combating climate change, and ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for people and the planet. But what is energy efficiency? What are its benefits? What can we do to start using energy more efficiently? Read on to find out.

What is Energy Efficiency?

Energy efficiency (EE) simply means using less energy to perform the same task. This involves optimising processes, technologies, and behaviours to reduce energy waste and improve performance across various sectors such as industry, transportation, buildings, and appliances.

EE brings a variety of benefits:

• cost savings: EE technologies lower the costs on a household and economy-wide level and help save money on energy bills
• community benefits: EE programmes improve community resilience and address energy poverty by bringing efficient, cost-effective technologies and infrastructure
• environmental benefits: reducing energy use is essential in the fight against climate change, because traditional power plants burn fossil fuels that release greenhouse gases and contribute to environmental pollution
• health benefits: reducing fossil fuel use results in cleaner air, water, and land, all of which directly affect human health — especially those in marginalised communities and people with conditions that are exacerbated by pollution
• resilience and reliability: EE improvements reduce the amount of electricity on the grid at one time, minimising congestion and stress on the electric grid. Less load prevents power disruptions.

There is a special international day — the World Energy Efficiency Day, celebrated annually on 6 March to raise awareness on the need to take action towards improving EE.

What are the key European Union policies on EE?

The European Union (EU) has long been committed to enhancing EE as a cornerstone of its environmental and economic strategies. Energy Efficiency First has been a guiding principle that complements other EU objectives, particularly in the areas of sustainability, climate neutrality and green growth.

In line with the European Green Deal and the ‘Fit for 55’ package, the EU revised its key legislation on EE, namely, the Energy Efficiency Directive in 2023, and the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is going to be adopted in 2024.

The recast Energy Efficiency Directive established new legally binding targets for Member States:

• to reduce final energy consumption by at least 11.7 % compared to projections of the expected energy use for 2030, across sectors such as buildings, transport, and industry
• to achieve an average annual energy savings rate of 1.49 % from 2024 to 2030
• to prioritise EE improvements for vulnerable customers, low-income households, and individuals in social housing, including within the scope of the energy savings obligation
• to introduce an annual energy consumption reduction target of 1.9 % for the public sector
• to extend the annual 3% buildings renovation obligation to all the levels of public administration.

Notably, the EU countries will now be legally required to prioritise EE in policymaking, planning, and major investments.

Pursuant the European Commission’s 2020 strategy “A Renovation Wave for Europe”, the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive obliges the EU Member States to establish long-term renovation strategies to support the renovation of their national building stock into a highly energy efficient and decarbonised building stock by 2050.

The EU also promotes research and innovation (R&I) in energy-efficient technologies through programmes such as Horizon Europe, which many third countries can also participate in and benefit from, including the countries of Central Asia.

Why do the countries of Central Asia prioritise EE?

We are witnessing a growing demand for energy in Central Asia (CA), as the populations and economies of the region grow. The commitment of the CA countries to improving EE is evident in their national strategies and legislative framework. It is essential for their people, businesses, industry. CA nations often grapple with challenges in ensuring reliable energy supplies, both for domestic consumption and export. By reducing dependence on imported energy through efficiency measures, they can enhance their energy security.

Environmental and climate change concerns further drive the prioritisation of EE. The CA countries recognise the importance of mitigating the impacts of energy production and consumption and see EE as a key strategy in reducing their environmental footprint. Besides, the CA countries have made commitments to international agreements, such as Paris Agreement, and initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change. Improving EE is a key strategy for meeting these commitments.

In summary, the imperative to improve EE in the CA countries arises from economic, environmental, energy security, social, and international commitments, making it a strategic priority for their sustainable development agendas.

What can we do to improve EE in our daily lives?

Here are several practical steps that we can take to use energy more efficiently:

1. Educate yourself and others: Learn and spread awareness about the importance of EE and encourage friends, family, and colleagues to adopt energy-saving practices in their homes and workplaces.
2. Adjust thermostat settings: use a programmable thermostat to regulate heating and cooling at home and at work;
3. Reduce electric energy consumption: conserve energy by turning off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use. Use natural light when possible;

1. Dress for the weather: when you’re at home, dress in warm clothing in the winter and cooler clothing in the summer to stay comfortable without making your heater and AC work harder;

5. Reduce phantom loads: unplug electronics and chargers when not in use to eliminate standby power consumption, also known as phantom loads;
6. Use energy-efficient lighting: replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives like compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These bulbs use less energy and last longer;
7. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: when purchasing new appliances, for example, a new fridge or a washing machine, look for models with high EE ratings. These appliances consume less energy and can lead to significant savings over time;
8. Reduce water consumption: conserve hot water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using energy-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads and faucets. Additionally, wash clothes in cold water whenever possible to save energy;
9. Optimise energy use in transportation: use public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking instead of driving alone in a car. When driving, maintain proper tire pressure, avoid excessive idling, and combine errands to reduce fuel consumption;
10. Improve home insulation: properly insulate your home to prevent heat loss during the winter and keep cool air inside during the summer. Seal gaps around doors and windows, and consider adding insulation to walls, floors, and attics.

What does the SECCA project do to increase EE in the countries of Central Asia?

The SECCA project is presently at the midpoint of its implementation timeline, and one of the project objectives is to share the EU best practices with Central Asia. Check out the following project events and news articles to learn more about the project work done so far in the field of improving EE in the countries of the region:

Kazakhstan

• European Union and Kazakhstani Energy Efficiency Experts Reviewed a Roadmap for Updated Energy Audit Quality Control for Industry
• Kazakhstan’s Energy Audit Bylaw Amended with the European Union’s support
• Quality Control of Energy Audits for Industry in Kazakhstan
• SECCA Energy Statistics Training for the Bureau of National Statistics of Kazakhstan
• First EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days: EU awards most Energy Efficient School of Astana City
• International Conference “Sustainable energy in Kazakhstan: prospects and challenges”

Kyrgyzstan

• European Union supports Kyrgyz Republic in Development of Pilot Inventory of Public Buildings to Improve Energy Efficiency
• European Union and Kyrgyz Experts Reviewed a Draft New Framework for Quality Control System of Buildings Energy Performance Certification
• Technical workshop: Quality Control of Energy Performance Certificates
• European Union awards the most energy efficient school in Bishkek
• SECCA training in Kyrgyzstan: Formation of the energy balance, calculation of energy efficiency indicators
• Bilateral working-level meetings in Kyrgyzstan
• International Conference “Sustainable energy in Kyrgyzstan: prospects and challenges”

Tajikistan

• International Conference “Energy Efficiency in Tajikistan: prospects and challenges”
• European Union Awards Most Energy Efficient School of Dushanbe
• SECCA workshop: Main aspects of sustainable energy policy planning and implementation

Turkmenistan

• European Union – Turkmenistan Sustainable Energy Days: Student and Schoolchildren Activities held in Mary, Most Energy Efficient School Awarded
• Lectures for faculty members and students of the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan
• International Conference “Sustainable energy in Turkmenistan: prospects and challenges”
• Technical workshop: Energy audits in buildings – from theory to practice

Uzbekistan

• European Union Awards Most Energy Efficient School of Tashkent
• SECCA training in Uzbekistan: Formation of the energy balance, calculation of energy efficiency indicators
• International Conference “Energy Efficiency in Uzbekistan: prospects and challenges”

Regional

• SECCA study tour “Promotion of Energy Efficiency – Latvian Experience”
• Head teachers of Most Energy Efficient Schools of Central Asia visited Most Sustainable School of Latvia
• SECCA study tour “Sustainable Energy in Practice: Georgia’s Success and EU Best Practices”
• Regional Workshop on Final Energy Consumption Statistics

This article was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its content is the sole responsibility of the consortium led by Stantec and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.