Burgas’ retrofitting programme, which was financed by the European Union, national government and municipal budget, made about 200 residential buildings as well as a growing number of municipal buildings more energy efficient. This also led to lower energy bills and more comfortable living environments, improving peoples’ quality of life. As the municipality effectively promoted the programme and supported residents throughout the application process, about half of all residential buildings are now retrofitted.
To apply, residents had to create an Association of Owners and appoint a contact person who maintained contact with the municipality. The city continued to communicate with the contact person and association, as the retrofitting was happening, also giving residents the possibility to give feedback and adjust the works accordingly. The anonymous surveys that were sent around after the works were completed showed that residents are very pleased with the results. The local authority also created a public company to build a smart street lighting system and worked with local partners to familiarise the population with renewable energy!