EU4Energy - Discussion on EU financial leverage

As part of the EU4Energy initiative, we took part in a debate on EU financial leverages on 5-6 December 2024 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The objectives of EU4Energy are to improve energy efficiency, strengthen energy security and transition to cleaner energy resources. It is implemented in cooperation with the International Energy Agency (IEA), the Energy Community and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).

Particular emphasis was given to discussing the EU financial leverages, their characteristics, the preparation of applications and the appraisal process of projects supported by EU financial leverages. The key to successfully obtaining these funds is a good understanding of EU requirements as well as effective cooperation between both applicants and users of project results. Successful access to EU funding is crucial for the development of the energy sector.

In the framework of this event, Dr Rudi Vončina presented the processes of preparation and evaluation of these projects. Applications must contain a clear and understandable project brief, its technical and economic relevance in the European context, a positive environmental and social aspect, and a description of the financial, technical or professional benefits for the individual EU stakeholders. The elements of upgrading the current technology situation, achieving technical excellence, positive socio-economic impacts, promoting ethics and ensuring sustainability are given particular weight in the evaluation of applications in the field of energy and electricity systems. A further event is planned in February 2025 to help participants develop their ideas into a project proposal.