Kazakhstan – Over 200 representatives of government agencies, affiliate organisations and expert organisations attended the workshops on building energy labelling and cost-optimal level calculations organised in Astana, Almaty, and online. These workshops were jointly held by the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Europea Union funded SECCA project, and the Chamber of Expert Organisations.

Kazakhstan’s building sector is the country’s largest energy consumer. Particularly in winter, high energy consumption results in increased demand on the heating and electricity systems. Data from the Committee for the Regulation of Natural Monopolies reveal that 60% of all thermal energy generated nationwide is used in buildings.

Kazakhstan has already established a legislative framework for energy efficiency labelling of buildings to drive demand for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. However, other challenges remain, such as improving methodologies for assessing energy efficiency classes and disseminating information among market participants. It is important to adapt international experience to local conditions and raise awareness among key players in the construction sector.

Drawing on the EU experience under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the SECCA experts shared best practices and lessons learned by the EU Member States. The participants improved their capacities and expertise in energy efficiency certification of buildings, calculation of balance of costs, assessment of economic and environmental benefits, and other.