Organized by the Regional Energy and Climate Agency of Northwest Croatia (REGEA), the conference “The Path to a Sustainable Future through the Decarbonization of Public Buildings” took place in Karlovac on December 5, 2024. This event served as the kick-off conference for the SMART DeCARB project, implemented within the framework of the INTERREG IPA Cross-Border Cooperation Program Croatia-Bosnia and Herzegovina-Montenegro.
The SMART DeCARB project focuses on developing and implementing innovative solutions for decarbonizing public buildings in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. The project will develop digital tools for managing energy data of public buildings, optimize renewable energy sources, and implement pilot projects in public buildings in Karlovac, Bihac, and Niksic. The lead partner in the project is the Regional Energy and Climate Agency of Northwest Croatia (REGEA), with project partners including Karlovac County, the Development Agency of the Una-Sana Canton in Bihać, the City of Bihac, and the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Tehnopolis.
The conference was opened by Ms. Vesna Hajsan Dolinar, Deputy Prefect of Karlovac County, Mr. Julije Domac, Director of REGEA, Mr. Elvedin Sedic, Mayor of Bihac, and Ms. Andjela Nikcevic, Project Manager at IEC Tehnopolis. The SMART DeCARB project was presented by Vedrana Vidicek from REGEA, who highlighted the project’s key goals and expected outcomes.
A Dynamic Program Focused on Sustainability
The working part of the conference was divided into three thematic sections, featuring presentations and panel discussions with experts:
- EU Projects Supporting Climate-Neutral Buildings
Marina Skunca from the Ministry of Regional Development and EU Funds delivered a presentation on the Interreg IPA CBC HR-BiH-ME program, followed by a panel discussion showcasing various projects and exchanging experiences in contributing to the energy transition. - The Path to Decarbonizing Public Sector Buildings – Technical Aspects
Olja Milosevic from the Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction, and State Assets presented national energy renovation programs, while other panelists from academia and the professional community provided insights into the technical aspects of energy efficiency. - The Path to Decarbonizing Public Sector Buildings – Financial Aspects
A presentation by Senka Jurkovic on financing green urban projects kicked off the panel dedicated to the economic dimensions of decarbonization. Participants discussed innovative financing models, including perspectives from Montenegro, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Panelists included Zeljko Lucic, Business Incubator Manager at IEC Tehnopolis.
The conference emphasized the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders at the regional and international levels to accelerate the energy transition. Special attention was given to exchanging experiences, technical support, and adapting financial models to meet the needs of local communities.
Supported by the Interreg program, the SMART DeCARB project continues to work on developing sustainable solutions for public buildings, contributing to decarbonization and achieving climate neutrality in the region.
