On 26 March 2026, the Second Meeting of the Bulgarian partners in the Thematic Projects within the Green Living Areas (GLA) Mission of the Interreg Euro-MED Programme was held online by the National Association of the Municipalities in Republic of Bulgaria. Experts from several regions in Bulgaria participated, representing specific sectors such as environmental protection, sustainable energy, climate change, and policy-making.
The main objective of the event was to present the new thematic project within the GLA Mission and to discuss the progress, outcomes from ongoing projects, and planned activities in the upcoming months.
The Regional Energy Agency of Pazardjik (REAP) participated in the meeting with the INFIRE project – “INnovative FInancing solutions for climate planning of REsilient and carbon neutral living areas”, which aims to provide tools and legislative improvements for a transition to carbon neutrality and climate adaptation in the Euro-MED region.
The experts from REAP explained the pilot actions in partner regions, focusing on Bulgarian activities, which are being implemented in the Municipality of Peshtera, an associated partner in the project. Special attention was given to the establishment of the Energy Help Desk in Peshtera, Bulgaria, for consultations on topics related to energy efficiency and climate change, as well as increasing the knowledge and expertise of the municipal staff who are working together with citizens.
It was explained to participants that in order to draw more attention and interest to the energy office, two complementary activities have been planned between REAP and Peshtera Municipality for the next remaining months of the project. These are small workshops with citizens and home visits to vulnerable households, during which we will discuss topics such as energy poverty, measures for climate change mitigation, and existing financial schemes. To support these activities, an “INFIRE Energy Box” will be distributed to the participating families. This box includes some thematic gadgets such as a smart meter plug to monitor and control electricity consumption, LED bulbs to demonstrate efficient lighting, a small USB fan to explain the link between rising summer temperatures and efficient cooling practices, printed materials with tips for reducing energy consumption and managing indoor comfort, and an INFIRE leaflet explaining the project and the Helpdesk’s purpose. The targeted goal is to reach about 100 vulnerable households by the end of the project.
This event provided an opportunity for the partners from the thematic projects in Bulgaria to network and discuss future collaborations, events, and potential improvements of the existing legislative framework in the field of energy and climate.
