Moldovan Signatories learn from Ukrainian energy efficiency experience

From October 1-3, 2025, the Ukrainian cities of Chernivtsi and Khotyn hosted representatives from Covenant of Mayors – East (CoM East) signatories from Moldova. The technical study visit, organized as part of the CoM East City2City peer-learning initiative, provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange on practical approaches to implementing energy efficiency measures and renewable energy solutions.

Chernivtsi: a comprehensive approach to energy policy

In Chernivtsi, the delegation was welcomed by Deputy Mayor Evhenii Makhovikov together with coordinators of sustainable development projects. The participants learned about the city’s approach to energy policy, encompassing strategic planning, energy management systems, building thermal modernization, and renewable energy development.

Participants visited the following projects:

• Gymnasium No. 20 and Lyceum No. 18 showcased different financing models for energy efficiency measures, combining European Investment Bank credits, NEFCO and E5P grants, and local budget funds.
• Pivdenna-1 Boiler House features a cogeneration unit installed with USAID support. The technology simultaneously produces heat and electricity, ensuring autonomous operation during power outages.
• Misksvitlo Municipal Enterprise presented a modernized street lighting system with LED technology and smart control elements, implemented with European Commission support.

Through this comprehensive approach and international financing, Chernivtsi has achieved reduced energy consumption and CO₂ emissions while improving urban comfort and resilience.

Khotyn: energy management and renewable energy

The second day took place in Khotyn, where First Deputy Mayor Danylo Biletskyi and his team shared their experience in implementing energy management in municipal facilities and developing renewable energy projects.

The delegation visited:

• Khotyn Multidisciplinary Hospital, equipped with a heat pump and solar power plant, one of the most powerful among similar municipal facilities in the region.
• Khotyn Fortress, where modern energy-efficient lighting systems are integrated into the architectural monument, combining cultural heritage with innovative technology.
• Participants explored solar power installations and visited a residential complex for internally displaced persons (IDP), modernized with international donor support. This project, implemented with EU grant funds administered through NEFCO, demonstrates how energy solutions can combine environmental benefits with social impact, in this case, providing proper living conditions for IDPs through comprehensive thermal modernization.

The technical study visit in Chernivtsi and Khotyn confirmed the commitment of Ukrainian and Moldovan municipalities to systematically develop energy and climate policy.

The exchange of practical solutions, demonstrated approaches to energy management, infrastructure modernization, and international support mobilization creates a foundation for continued cooperation. This format of interaction strengthens communities’ capacity to implement integrated projects that combine energy efficiency, renewable energy, and social benefits.