The Greek government has taken significant steps to bolster energy efficiency and provide economic support through various initiatives aimed at benefiting local communities. Recently, the Minister of Environment and Energy, Theodoros Skylakakis, announced the extension of application deadlines until March 31, 2025, for four pivotal energy efficiency programs, totaling €213.3 million. These programs are targeted at enhancing energy performance across schools, nurseries, mountain tourism accommodations, and introducing energy storage systems for businesses.
The four programs, launched earlier this year, reflect the government's commitment to promote sustainable energy practices. The "Athena" program allocates €37.2 million for improving energy efficiency at public kindergartens and primary schools nationwide. Eligible beneficiaries include first-level local government bodies and legal entities running these educational institutions. It covers interventions related to heating and cooling systems and addresses thermal losses from buildings, such as windows and ceilings.
Similarly, the "Phoebus" program focuses on improving energy performance at operation child daycare facilities, designated with €12.4 million. This initiative also targets local government units and their affiliated legal entities, emphasizing building insulation and technical system upgrades, which involve replacing old fixtures and installing heat pumps.
A key component of the overall energy efficiency strategy involves the upgrade of rural tourist accommodations, with €10 million allocated for energy renovations. Importantly, this program designates 10% of its budget for traditional and listed buildings to support the preservation of heritage alongside sustainability.
On the business front, the €153.7 million program for energy storage systems offers financial aid for installing battery systems tied to new or existing photovoltaic installations. Notably, the eligibility criteria have been eased. Now, beneficiaries can secure funding via equipment purchases without the prerequisite of having their connection to the grid established by the investment's completion, facilitating smoother processes.
These actions correspond with the government's broader economic initiatives, including the recent decision by e-EFKA to refund overpaid social security contributions to thousands of professionals, including salaried lawyers and health professionals. On February 27, 2025, the organization will issue €1,651,125.47 as part of this refund process, significantly streamlining operations by removing the need for tax clearance certificates, per the 63/2024 legal opinion.
Looking at the European level, President Ursula von der Leyen of the European Commission highlighted recent measures through a new action plan aimed at reducing energy costs for households and industries. The plan is projected to save up to €45 billion by 2025, with increasing savings over the following years. Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of transitioning energy markets by making energy prices more attractive and increasing competition within Europe’s energy sector.
“We are transforming energy prices downwards and competitiveness upwards,” von der Leyen stated, underlining the need for more predictable energy prices and stronger network connections throughout Europe.
On another front, addressing Greece’s maritime connectivity, Minister of Shipping Christos Stylianidis reassured the public during parliamentary discussions about the importance of subsidizing routes, particularly for winter travel. He emphasized how key routes, such as between Samothrace and Alexandroupoli, are maintaining connectivity, with frequent ferry services. “The ultimate goal is to secure sustainable and efficient operation for the benefit of local communities,” he remarked, explaining the evaluations involved to secure subsidies and improve transportation links to the islands.
With these efforts, Greece aims to not only address immediate energy efficiency needs but also lay the groundwork for future economic resilience, ensuring connectivity, and energy accessibility for all its citizens.
Through these multifaceted strategies, the Greek government is addressing both energy and economic challenges. By investing and incentivizing energy efficiency, particularly through comprehensive support programs, it is fostering sustainability, reducing costs, and assuring the well-being of its communities now and for future generations.