“Warm in winter, cool in summer”
Addressing poverty and reducing dependency on fossil fuels while empowering local communities in Moldova through tailored energy-saving measures.
In Moldova, most people live in rural areas and rely on wood or charcoal to heat poorly insulated homes. Recognising the potential for positive change, SKAT developed a project to improve living conditions, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce emissions, while actively involving local communities. This energy efficiency project became a component of the MĂ IMPLIC project, which SKAT implements together with its local team and partners on behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
This initiative combines SKAT’s technical expertise with capacity-building efforts, fostering knowledge-sharing and empowering local communities to implement sustainable solutions. Through tailored interventions and a willingness to explore new approaches, the project has contributed to lasting change for Moldova’s rural populations.
The project began in 2023 with the renovation of 400 private homes. Each home was assessed individually to identify the most effective energy-saving measures, resulting in energy savings of over 30 percent. In addition, eight public buildings were renovated, and photovoltaic systems were installed on ten public buildings. SKAT documented key findings and lessons learnt and shared them with stakeholders such as homeowners, local authorities, and craftspeople. These efforts culminated in the nationwide awareness campaign “Warm in winter, cool in summer”, which provided practical insights on energy efficiency through knowledge products, leaflets, videos, and social media posts. The campaign received strong support from local and national authorities, particularly in the context of the ongoing energy crisis at the time. A valuable partnership with the National Centre for Sustainable Energy (CNED) of the Moldovan government helped to extend the reach and impact of the campaign.
Piloting alternatives for water infrastructure
In response to demand from local communities, SKAT further expanded the MĂ IMPLIC project in 2024 to enhance water supply services. Within the framework of the MĂ IMPLIC project, SKAT improved water supply systems in four partner municipalities. Residents identified improved water supply as a priority and have been actively contributing to the initiative, including through financial contributions. Up to 10,000 people are expected to benefit from the improved services.
Building on more than fifteen years of experience in water infrastructure development across Moldovan villages, SKAT is leveraging its expertise and networks to support this initiative. SKAT is leading the design, construction, and upgrading of water systems while working closely with local water operators and strengthening their capacities through targeted support.
