Switzerland and Slovenia Launch Programme Promoting Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Alpine Regions

The event was organised by the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy as the Programme Operator in partnership with the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development and with the support of the Swiss Confederation.

The Programme makes CHF 15.12 million (over EUR 16 million) available and aims to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promote the use of renewable energy sources and foster the transition to a low-carbon society. While the Programme puts environmental objectives at the forefront, it also seeks to strengthen the partnership between Switzerland and Slovenia that builds on mutual trust, cooperation, and a shared vision of a sustainable future.

The event was opened by mag. Tina Sršen, State Secretary from the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy on behalf of the Programme Operator. Jadranka Plut, Head of the National Coordination Unit for the second Swiss Contribution from the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development, and Her Excellency Gabriele Schreier, the Ambassador of Switzerland to Slovenia also delivered opening remarks.

‘’This programme launch provides a perfect opportunity to bring the best practices of both countries together, turning them into tangible results like energy savings and new community-led renewable energy initiatives on the ground. Today’s discussion will revolve around energy, digitalisation of local energy concepts, agri-photovoltaic pilot projects, and energy communities, with the ultimate goal of unlocking a smarter, more resilient, and more competitive energy future of Alpine regions,’’ underscored Jadranka Plut, Head of the National Coordination Unit.

In her speech, State Secretary Seršen highlighted that support from the second Swiss Contribution has been earmarked for environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable use of energy. ‘’These areas are key for the future of our country and regions, especially Alpine region that is characterised by tougher conditions and extremely high vulnerability to climate change. Yet, this region has a lot to offer in terms of breakthrough potential.’’

Ambassador Gabriele Schreier said that ‘’the implementation of the Programme under the second Swiss Contribution offers an excellent opportunity to further strengthen the already excellent relations between the two countries and to implement concrete projects by working closely together. Slovenian partners have selected the thematic area of energy efficiency and renewable energy, making it the focus of our future collaborative efforts, which is an opportunity to contribute to yet another shared global commitment – the fight against climate change.’’ 

The event attendees learned more about the Programme’s key components that address the main domains of the green transition, i.e. digitalisation of local energy concepts (DIGI-LEC), piloting of agri-photovoltaics, promotion of renewable energy communities, and promotion of shallow geothermal energy use. 

In this context, the Agricultural Institute of Slovenia presented the ongoing feasibility study on agri-photovoltaics and its current findings, whereas the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy announced a call for proposals to support investments in community self-sufficient energy systems harnessing solar and geothermal power in educational institutions.

The final part of the event was designed to encourage discussion and networking that are essential for further strengthening cooperation between Slovenia and Switzerland on the path to a more sustainable and energy efficient future.