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Unlocking Sustainable Financing Practices for Energy Efficiency Projects: A Multi-Country Analysis

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  • Charikleia Karakosta

    (Decision Support Systems Laboratory, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9, Iroon Polytechniou Str., Zografou, 15780 Athens, Greece
    Department of Civil Engineering, University of West Attica, Petrou Ralli & Thivon 250, 12244 Egaleo, Greece
    Department of Business Administration, University of Macedonia, 156 Egnatia Street, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece)

  • Alice Corovessi

    (INZEB—Initialising Energy Balance Towards Zero, 507, Mesogion Av., 15343 Agia Paraskevi, Greece)

  • Isaak Vryzidis

    (Department of Civil Engineering, University of West Attica, Petrou Ralli & Thivon 250, 12244 Egaleo, Greece)

Abstract

Achieving the European Union’s (EU) energy efficiency targets is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy security, and ensuring sustainable investments in the building and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) sectors. However, stagnant investments hinder progress towards these goals. This study examines successful sustainable financing practices for energy efficiency projects, with a focus on replicable financing schemes and models across EU countries. By examining long-term, replicable initiatives, the paper identifies best practices that can be adapted across various EU Member States, despite differing regulatory frameworks. Key selection criteria include project scale, duration, results, and private financing attraction. The study also provides market updates, evaluates financial schemes and models, assesses barriers to private fund leveraging, and shares lessons learned in overcoming these challenges. This research contributes to understanding effective strategies for encouraging investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy across the EU by promoting large-scale communication campaigns and fostering greater public-private cooperation.

Suggested Citation

  • Charikleia Karakosta & Alice Corovessi & Isaak Vryzidis, 2025. "Unlocking Sustainable Financing Practices for Energy Efficiency Projects: A Multi-Country Analysis," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-22, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:5:p:1107-:d:1598685
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