A green paper on Energy Efficiency prepared by the European Commission pointed out that the building sector constituted 40% of energy demand in Europe. This suggested it was the area where substantial energy savings could best be realized.
European Directive 2010/31/EU on the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPBD) also proposed new definitions and requirements for „nearly zero energy buildings“ for all EU member states.
While realizing this EPBD initiative in Lithuania, Regional Innovation Management Center facilitated the process of national consensus. This consisted of five major rounds involving at least 70 organizations (companies, universities, vocational training institutions, business associations, and governmental agencies). It focused on creating a qualifications roadmap for developing more qualified craft and blue-collar workers to construct energy-efficient buildings and use technologies related to renewable energy resources.
The Regional Innovation Management Center is currently involved in the BUILD Up Skills ENERGOTRAIN initiative. This is aimed at establishing a voluntary system for developing and recognizing the professional competencies and skills of the building workforce in Lithuania in relation to requirements for nearly zero energy buildings.
Involved organizations:
- Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
- Certification Center of Building Products
- Lithuanian Builders Association
- National Association of Passive House
- Centre of Training for Energy Specialists
- Vilnius Jeruzales Labour Market Training Center
Vilnius Builders Training Center
