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More funds are now required for the energy upgrade of ever fewer homes, as a result of the large increase in the cost of materials (insulation, aluminum etc.), but also of labor remuneration, recorded in recent years. A simple comparison between the 2021 \u201cExoikonomo (I Save)\u201d program and that of 2025 shows that in proportional terms the latter program requires almost double the subsidy funds to achieve the same result regarding the number of homes to get energy-upgrades.<\/p>\n
The 2021 program covered 69,409 beneficiaries, with the average subsidy per property at \u20ac13,242. That for 2025 will cover only 37,829 residences, with the average subsidy being \u20ac22,476 per property, though its budget is similar, amounting to \u20ac850 million, against \u20ac937.8 million for 2021.<\/p>\n
This demonstrates the great challenge the state has, given the requirements from its harmonization with EU energy policy for emissions from buildings. The deadline for incorporation into national legislation of the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive expires on May 29; that sets specific targets and deadlines for reducing energy consumption in residential buildings by 16% by 2030; by 2033, 26% of the most energy-intensive buildings should be upgraded to energy-efficient. This means that by 2033, upgrades should be made to 1 in 4 properties currently classified in the two lowest energy categories.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the government is preparing a new program of energy-saving actions for homes in the coming period, having submitted proposals for approval to the EU. Within the framework of the Social Climate Fund of \u20ac5.3 billion, a new, redesigned \u201cExoikonomo\u201d program for households is planned; it concerns a subsidy totaling \u20ac1.19 billion, with the aim of reducing energy consumption in 62,000 homes nationwide.<\/p>\n
An additional \u20ac930 million will go to changing heating systems and water heaters, while another \u20ac390 million concern energy upgrades in buildings housing small businesses. Eligible households will be able to receive subsidies for expenses such as thermal facades, insulation, shading systems, and replacement of window frames, at a rate that may even exceed 80%.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n