The program aims to improve Bosnia and Herzegovina's capacities and knowledge on methods and tools for improved energy efficiency in buildings. The program entails training of energy auditors, who using ENSI-developed methodologies and software, will be able to contribute to greater energy efficiency in buildings in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To this end, the Norwegian consultant company Energy Saving International (ENSI) has in cooperation with their local partner, Centre for Energy, Environment and Resources in BiH (CENER 21), provided training and certification for 25 local experts. The program has consisted of training in methods and practices in energy auditing, as well as training in the use of advanced planning software. These 25 certified energy auditors will provide training for additional energy auditors throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The seminar was held in Sarajevo on the 29th of October in order to present the results of the training, confer certificates of accreditation to successful candidates, and to raise awareness about the opportunities and advantages of energy auditing and of improving energy efficiency. Ambassador Braathu gave the opening speech, focusing on both economic and environmental advantages of energy saving.
"Greater efficiency in energy use can make an important contribution to the restructuring of BiH industries. But it also can help achieve significant cost reductions in government administration, such as in government buildings", Braathu said. He also stated that he is looking forward to the second phase of the project, in which experts will receive more training. This will include the important subject of harmonisation with EU-regulations on energy efficiency.
Appart from supporting this project specifically, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has supported ENSI over many years in energy efficiency projects throughout Eastern and Central Europe.
Read ambassador Braathus entire speech here.