23-061 Bijlage 1. Aanvraag EU project DETOCS

Associated Policy Authority Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. Ptuj City Municipality Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

48/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

Ptuj City Municipality is a medium size municipality (with around 23.200 inhabitants) and its Municipal Council adopted Local energy concept, developed by LEASP, in 2020. The Local Energy Concept (LEC) is the most important tool for planning the local energy policy strategy. The LEC contains solutions tailored to the Ptuj City Municipality for efficient, economical and environmentally friendly energy services in homes, businesses and public institutions. The document also lists concrete effects that the municipality can achieve by implementing the LEC activities. The document is the basis for further planning of the economic development of the municipality, the development of local energy utilities, the efficient use of energy and its saving, the use of renewable energy sources and the improvement of air quality in the area of the municipality. LEC enables: • monitoring, determining and documenting energy consumption and changes in the energy and environmental situation, • creation of short-term and long-term energy policy, • the selection and determination of the goals of energy planning and energy policy in the municipality, • creation and comparison of various alternatives and scenarios of possible energy and related economic development, • review of measures to effectively improve the energy situation and thus also the state of the environment. 1372/1500

D.1.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument No

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself Yes There is a great urge to revise the policy instrument as now it's primary focus is on implementation of energy efficiency measures and utilization of renewable energy sources in public sector, but only limited focus is given to the touristic buildings. In Ptuj City Municipality touristic sector is one of the main sectors and therefore there is a high potential for implementing new energy efficiency measures and use of RES into the policy document targeting specifically mentioned sector. And through the good practices exchange, SWOT and PASTEL analysis, the new knowledge will be acquisitioned that can improve policy instrument and its actions. New actions will be included into the policy instrument specifically targeting touristic sector while taking into account cultural heritage requirements. New solutions, like virtual and digital tourism, will be explored as well. DETOCS project comes at the right time, as the LEC (policy instrument) has to be revised every 5 years, meaning the current LEC will have to be revised in 2025 and new actions will be easily adopted and confirmed by Municipality. https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

49/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

1319/1500

D.1.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 1 Partner LP01 Local energy agency Spodnje Podravje What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)? LEASP is an energy manager of more than 20 municipalities in the Podravje region. One of the LEASP’s main role as energy manager is the development, monitoring and revision of Local energy concepts for Ptuj city Municipality. LEASP responsibility is to coordinate and implement Local energy concept actions. LEASP is obliged to plan and perform the activities/actions as given in LEC. Annually, LEASP prepares a report on the LEC progress and achievements for the municipal council and the corresponding Ministry. Moreover, LEASP has prepared 20 LECs beside the one for Ptuj city Municipality and prepared national guidance for LEC development and therefore an impact beyond of Ptuj city Municipality can be expected. LEASP have included Ptuj City Municipality as associated policy authority in to the project and with their signature they have confirmed their active participation in exchange of experiences 983/1000

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? LEASP has vast experience in the areas of renewable energy promotion and energy efficiency. LEASP supports and advises all sectors in the preparation and implementation phases of investments in EE and RES measures (more than 60 projects were carried out under the supervision of LEASP). LEASP as energy managers, is responsible for development, implementation and monitoring of 21 Local energy concepts developed for Municipalities in Spodnje Podravje Region. LEASP has a strong experience in multi-stakeholder collaboration, being in the role of mediator bringing together public sector on one hand and private on the other, those providing energy solutions suitable to all. 679/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. LEASP as a lead partner of DETOCS will be actively involved in all stages of the project implementation, LEASP will share its experiences and knowledge on most suitable energy efficiency measure, novel technologies, use of renewable energy sources and on user behaver as well as on energy management. LEASP will share all the know-how from previous Interreg Europe projects (ZEROCO2 and SME POWER) and will involve most relevant stakeholders to the project. On the other hand, LEASP will benefit from this project cooperation in gaining new knowledge on innovative polices, new solutions in supporting touristic infrastructure on their path to decarbonisation, novel technologies and tools that are used in other EU regions and are helping save GHG emissions. Most particularly, LEASP is eager to learn about novel actions that could support touristic sector to decrees their CO2 and increase their energy efficiency. 919/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. LEASP is not involved in any other Interreg Europe 2021-2027 project proposal. But is/has been involved in two projects from previous period, namely SME POWER and ZEROCO2. In SME POWER energy efficiency in SMEs was targeted with other regions (non included in DETOCS) and different stakeholders, policy authority and policy instrument addressed. LEASP has been a LP in ZEROCO2 project in which LEASP has worked with some regions also included in DETOCS. But the current project is targeting essentially the private sector, which is facing different problems and challenges than the public sector (that was addressed in ZEROCO2). Also, due to the nature of DETOCS, a completely new focus of regional stakeholder groups will be created, differing to the one from ZEROCO2 project. 778/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

50/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.1.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 1 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries. You have 7 entries.

Municipality of Ormož 21/300

Local Energy Agencies consortium in Slovenia (KLEAS) 52/300

Styrian Chamber of Commerce 27/300

Ptuj City Municipality 22/300

Municipality of Destrnik 24/300

Municipality of Markovci 24/300

Municipality of Gorišnica 25/300

D.1.4 Pilot action under policy instrument Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument? No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

51/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.2 Policy instrument 2 D.2.1 Territorial context and general description D.2.1.1 Territorial context What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory. Due to the extremely unstable situation in Europe nowadays, the tourism sector in Crete is facing serious challenges, including: -Covid-19 pandemic -Energy crisis that constantly increases prices of different energy carriers, which results in constant increase of prices of electricity and natural gas -The necessity to mitigate climate change and reduce its carbon footprint due to energy use complying with the national, EU and global targets for a clean energy transition to a net-zero carbon economy by 2050. Tourism industry in Crete has a very significant impact in island’s economy since it contributes at around 47% in the creation of its GDP. Around 5 mil. tourists use to come annually in the island (with inhabitants at around 650,000), before the pandemic, and this number is expected to increase in the future. The four main cities in Crete have a significant tourism infrastructure while they host a large number of annual visitors in the island.

Tourism industry in Crete is carbon intensive having a high share in the total carbon emissions in the island. It is obvious that tourism industry in Crete needs to increase its energy security and self-sufficiency reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels and increasing the use of carbon-free energy sources and technologies and most importantly improve its energy efficiency. This will improve its energy resilience and its adaptation to climate change that is necessary for its long-term sustainability 1491/1500

D.2.1.2 General description of the policy instrument Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned). REGIONAL OPERATIONAL PROGRAM OF CRETE 2021-2027 PRIORITY 6: Integrated Spatial Development of Urban Centers and Rural Areas

126/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)? Yes Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument Regional Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Partner Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. PP03 Region of Crete Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

52/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

The policy instrument addressed is the Regional OP of Crete for period 2021-2027. The Priority Sector 6 “Integrated Spatial Development of Urban Centers and Rural Areas” meets PO5 of the new EU Cohesion Policy for "A Europe closer to its citizens by promoting the sustainable and integrated development of all types of regions and local initiatives". Urban revitalization is considered as one of the most effective urban planning policy tools. Sustainable Urban Development Strategies (SUDSs) are called upon to make cities fair, green, productive, and smart, ensuring quality of life in neighborhoods,for all population groups, removing divisions and discrimination, upgraded green spaces, quality buildings and infrastructure, energy efficiency infrastructures, sustainable mobility, support for innovation and productive diversification as well as digital transition. Four SUDS will be implemented in the capitals of the four Regional Units of Crete. Heraklion and Chania continue and update the SUDS 2014-2020. Rethymno and Ag. Nikolaos are designing new SUDS utilizing the experience of the past. The Special Objective will pursue the urban development of four cities of Crete, Capitals of the Regional Units, through properly designed strategies, facing modern social, economic, and technological challenges.

Through properly designed Sustainable Urban Development Strategies, actions will be implemented that aim at strengthening and transforming cities, as well as in tackling climate change. 1500/1500

D.2.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument Yes The policy instrument addresses the need for the four capital cities of Crete to adapt to climate change, deal with natural hazards and enhance their attractiveness, given that they are important touristic destinations. The aim is to promote smart, green, productive, and fair interventions that transform the local economy, deal with climate change effects and improve the quality of life. In Crete the contribution of tourism in the regional domestic product is high. Many accommodation facilities are located in the four capitals of the Regional Units of Crete: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno and Ag. Nikolaos. These facilities cover their energy needs mainly with grid electricity which, combined with the energy crisis, results in high carbon/environmental footprint and high energy costs. To address these challenges promotion of several renewable energy and energy efficient technologies in accommodation facilities and touristic infrastructure is necessary, technically feasible and economically profitable. DETOCS activities and good practices from other regins will develop new policies promoting projects financed by the policy instrument to improve energy efficiency in hotel buildings and infrastructures reducing their environmental footprint.

The proposed projects will contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions, enhance de-carbonization and increase competitiveness. 1383/1500

Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself No

0/1500

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

53/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.2.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 2 Partner PP02 Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Chania (CIHEAM MAICh) What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)? MAICH has already established the Tourism Observatory in Western Crete with the financial support of the Region of Crete and the Municipality of Chania. MAICH coordinates the Tourism Observatory with the collaboration of the Technical University of Crete, the University of Crete, the Hellenic Mediterranean University, the Higher (Advanced) School of Tourism Education of Crete, the Chania Hotel’s Association, the Chania Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Economic Chamber of Greece - Department of Western Crete. It has significant experience regarding the regional tourism industry its needs and its prospects. It has developed closed relations during the previous ten years with the Region of Crete implementing various studies and activities concerning the tourism industry in the island and advising the regional policy maker regarding the promotion of its long-term tourism and energy sustainability. 914/1000

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? The partnership of MAICH and the Region of Crete in this project is complementary in the island. MAICH also has participated in the successful implementation of the project ZEROCO2 financed by INTERREG EUROPE 1st call. Through its participation MAICH has acquired valuable know-how related with the use of sustainable energy technologies in buildings reducing their carbon footprint due to energy use. The well-qualified scientists of MAICH will be able to provide advices to hotel accommodations regarding the greening of their enterprises. CIHEAM-MAICh participates in EU projects focused on tourism such as “TOURNET” aiming at the establishment of cross-sectoral networks for sustainable tourism, “INTEM” aiming at integrated ecotourism management, “VETITEC” aiming at creating VET International Consortium for Tourism and Environment, "WBL4SLOWTOUR" aiming at increasing employability in sustainable and accessible tourist 4.0 destinations. 944/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. MAICH will benefit from the project at different levels, including but not limited to the sharing of accumulated knowledge and promoting energy efficiency and the use of RES in the tourism accommodations, transferring of knowledge to and from other partners, enhancing cooperation with the policy authority- Region of Crete - and exploring opportunities for longer term cooperation beyond the life time of the project, given that the topic is relevant up to 2050.

464/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. MAICH has not been involved in other INTERREG EUROPE applications

65/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

54/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.2.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 2 Partner PP03 Region of Crete What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? The Region of Crete has a great experience in implementing EU projects in various fields, including energy efficiency in buildings, low carbon policies, sustainable tourism, circular economy etc. It also proceeds with projects and actions towards increasing energy efficiency, reducing energy costs, and promoting sustainable development. A strong collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, public entities and research and educational institutions is always achieved for the successful implementation of these actions. During the previous programming period (20142020) Region of Crete had participated as partner in the project REBUS (low carbon economy) and as stakeholder in the project ZEROCO2 (low carbon economy) (the project partner in ZEROCO2 in Crete was MAICH). 776/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. The Region of Crete has set as a priority the sustainable development of the region, through a low carbon economy that will strengthen the integrated social, economic and environmental development, culture, natural heritage, and sustainable tourism. The Regional Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation is almost completed, in which the sectors of Energy and Tourism are high in the agenda for enhancing their resilience and their better adaptation to climate change as well as their decarbonization. The Region of Crete will benefit from the project by gaining important experience and knowledge on green tourism infrastructure with combination of good practices shared by other partners. New calls and projects can be launched that will tackle the key environmental challenges of the urban and semi-urban centers of Crete under the light of climate change and energy crisis. 875/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. Region of Crete has not been involved in other INTERREG EUROPE applications.

76/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

55/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.2.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 2 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries. You have 9 entries.

Rethymno Hotel Association 26/300

Minicipality of Ag. Nikolaos 28/300

Municipality of Heraklion 25/300

Minicipality of Rethymno 24/300

Municipality of Chania 22/300

Managing Authority of Crete 27/300

Lasithi Hotel Association 25/300

Heraklio Hotel Association 26/300

Chania Hotel Association 24/300

D.2.4 Pilot action under policy instrument Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument? No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

56/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.3 Policy instrument 3 D.3.1 Territorial context and general description D.3.1.1 Territorial context What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory. In 2019, over 9.4 million nights were spent by tourists in Malta. In the peak of summer, tourists account to almost 1 in 4 inhabitants on the island. However, when the Covid-19 pandemic arrived, the impact was exasperating and the Ukrainian conflict continued to add more pressure on the industry due to the increases in fuel and energy costs, as well as basic supplies and commodities. On the other hand, the commitments of the EU and Malta to decarbonise the economy prompts a fast and effective response based on solid policies favouring the environment. The challenges that need to be overcome are multi-faceted and these will be addressed by the project, such as: 1. Understand and identify the barriers which are hindering stakeholders from taking the leap to invest in more sustainable and cost-effective measures to reduce their carbon footprint and become more energy efficient. 2. Identify and focus on the most effective policy measures that are proven to yield quick and long-lasting results. 3.

Mobilise the tourism industry to realise the urgency of shifting towards carbon neutrality and the positive impact that this will have on the operations and profitability of the sector. 4. Learn and share knowledge and know-how from other territories and regions to avoid reinventing the wheel for achieving the set targets for carbon reduction and energy efficiency. 1375/1500

D.3.1.2 General description of the policy instrument Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned). Investment for Jobs and Growth Goal 2021/2027, Malta

52/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)? Yes Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument National Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Partner Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. PP05 Ministry for Tourism Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed). The focus of Priority 2 entitled “Promoting clean and fair energy transition, sustainable wastewater management and green investment” is to address climate and environmental challenges by promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy measures in enterprises, taking into consideration existing plans and commitments such as Malta’s 2030 National Energy and Climate Plan and National Long-term Renovation Strategy 2050, among others, which have already been approved as in line with the European overall target for the long-term decarbonisation goals by 2050. One of the main target groups of this Policy Instrument is the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), under which the majority of Tourism Operators fall. Following the COVID-19 and the current energy crisis, the Tourism Sector has significantly suffered at all fronts and urgently requires effective policies and measures to sustainably recover and grow. The policy instrument envisages financial support for investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy with specific focus given to the worst-performing buildings within this sector. 1100/1500

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

57/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.3.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument Yes This project will support improvement of the Policy Instrument to specifically address the needs of private enterprises involved in the Tourism Sector and identify effective and tailor-made energy policy actions and potential projects to maximise the reduction of GHG emissions. New investments to be financed should be assured through: 1. Identifying good practice projects and knowledge sharing between regions to decarbonise the Tourism Industry through employing high impact life-cycle macro cost effective measures to the worst energy performers, as well as providing pathways for energy self-sufficiency through energy storage and smart digitisation of the energy services, while ensuring higher customer experience and potential for green marketing. 2. Identifying holistic approaches to improve the Policy Instrument for prioritising the water, energy and food supply nexus, as these significantly contribute to the total carbon emissions in the tourism industry. h l b d d h l df h l f h l l ( ) 1189/1500 Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself No

0/1500

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

58/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.3.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 3 Partner PP04 Univerisity of Malta What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)? The Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Department of Public Policy of the University of Malta have been at the forefront in advocating and engaging with relevant policy makers to put into practice effective measures for enhancing policy making based on relevant research and development outcomes., to accelerate the implementation of the EU Directives, the Green Deal and the Decarbonisation pathways for 2050. The University of Malta’s partnership in this project together with the partnership of the policy responsible authority is complementary. On the one hand, the University already has significant contributions to make to enhancing the policy instruments in favour of decarbonisation in the tourism industry, and on the other hand, the Ministry for Tourism has all the faculties and facilities to influence the policy based on evidence-based relevant works of the University, thus forming a win-win partnership. 925/1000

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? The Institute for Sustainable Energy (ISE) within the University of Malta (UOM) conducts applied research on building energy performance and publishes results that are applicable to local building scenarios, including the tourism sector. The Institute has also actively collaborated with key public authority stakeholders for more than 10 years, offering consultation on current challenges in the sector of energy performance of buildings and decarbonisation pathways, and proposing policies to accelerate the implementation of the EU RES, EPBD and EE Directives. On the other hand, the Department of Public Policy within the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy has a key role in linking public policy, politics and governing institutions to businesses, the economy, society and the environment, aiming to build ‘the good society’ by proposing policies on issues such as welfare, the economy and the environment, which are relevant topics to the Tourism Industry. 976/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. The University of Malta will benefit from the project at different levels, including but not limited to the sharing of accumulated knowledge and experience in the area of energy efficiency and making a technology shift towards zero net-carbon buildings, transferring of knowledge to and from other partners, enhancing cooperation with policy responsible entities and exploring opportunities for longer term cooperation beyond the life time of the project, given that the topic is relevant up to 2050.

500/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. The University of Malta does not participate in other Interreg Europe applications, priority GREEN, under the current call.

124/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

59/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.3.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 3 Partner PP05 Ministry for Tourism What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? The Ministry for Tourism has all the necessary competence to deal with this sector such as the know-how and skills to manage this sector in the best interest of the country, appropriate contact channels with all relevant stakeholders and legislative powers to direct the tourism industry forwards. For example, a new Tourism Strategy for the years 2021-2030 entitled Recover, Rethink, Revitalise has been recently launched. This 10-year Strategy is influenced by several key principles that are considered as fundamental for guiding the development of tourism in Malta. The Strategy is based on the three-pronged approach of Recovering, Rethinking and Revitalising this important pillar of Maltese economic activity. This opportunity allows the country to re-establish its tourism industry on a sounder footing and in line with international ideals and commitments in the fields of sustainable development and climate change that are rapidly requiring urgent action on a global level. 984/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. The Ministry for Tourism will benefit from the project at different levels, including but not limited to the sharing of accumulated knowledge and experience in the area of energy efficiency and making a technology shift towards zero net-carbon buildings, transferring of knowledge to and from other partners, enhancing cooperation with policy responsible entities and exploring opportunities for longer term cooperation beyond the life time of the project, given that the topic is relevant up to 2050. The Ministry is also participating in other projects with TSI (sustainable tourism indicators) and ESPON (workshops on energy efficiency and sustainability in the tourism sector), and this proposal will tie very well with these projects. 741/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. Is not involved in other Interreg Europe proposals.

51/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

60/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.3.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 3 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries. You have 9 entries.

Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry 50/300

Institute of Tourism Studies 28/300

Malta Tourism Authority 23/300

Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association 40/300

Energy and Water Agency 23/300

Malta Business Bureau 21/300

Malta Chamber of SMEs 21/300

Building and Construction Authority 35/300

Ministry for Environment, Energy and Enterprise 47/300

D.3.4 Pilot action under policy instrument Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument? No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

61/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.4 Policy instrument 4 D.4.1 Territorial context and general description D.4.1.1 Territorial context What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory. The tourism sector in the South Ostrobothnia is smaller than in most of the other Regions participating in the project. In 2019, 3 % of jobs in the region were in hotel and restaurant services and international travellers made up less than 6% of the total amount of travellers in the region. Though the share of tourism is small, it has been recognized as a sector with a high growth potential in the Region. This growth is challenged by the aftermath of the pandemic, the rise of energy prices and regional specific challenges such as the regions attractiveness to travellers and clinging to declining industries and current practices. This project focuses on the energy efficiency in accommodation buildings/infrastructure. Accommodation in South Ostrobothnia includes log cabins, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and motels. The state of these buildings varies depending on their year of construction but in general they are in good condition. The ownership varies form large hotel chains to single family operations.

Smaller operators make up the largest portion of accommodation providers in the Region. Especially the smaller operations would benefit from solutions and advice on building energy efficiency including ways to create behavioural change of visitors to support the energy efficiency activities of the owners. Increased energy efficiency will decrease the costs of businesses 1480/1500

D.4.1.2 General description of the policy instrument Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned). Etelä-Pohjanmaan maakuntaohjelma 2022-2025, The regional progamme of South Ostrobothnia 2022-2025. This has been officially accepted on 13.12.2021.

147/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)? No Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument Regional Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Partner Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. PP07 Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

62/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

According to the Act on the Development of Regions and the Implementation of Regional and Structural Policies of the European Union (756/2021), the regional programme is drawn up every municipal council term under the leadership of the regional government in cooperation with relevant stakeholders. The topical issues dealt with in the programme are mitigating climate change and protecting biodiversity, sustainable community development and connectivity, a renewing business sector and boosting research, development and innovation, knowledge, and education as a resource for regional development, promoting participation and well-being and preventing inequalities. The regional programme is divided into three main themes: Stable and Vibrant, Intelligent and Skilful, Flexible and Sustainable. In South Ostrobothnia, the strategy for smart specialisation is integrated into the regional programme. The project will focus more specifically on the sub theme “4.2.3. Wellbeing and Lifestyle Economy”. This theme has the goal of increasing the visibility of tourism destinations in South Ostrobothnia, strengthening the operating environment of the tourism sector, and investing in the internationalisation, sustainability, and responsibility of the region’s tourism and in the digitalisation of the customer journey.

Complete programme (in Finnish) Huomisen lakeus - Maakuntastrategia (epliitto.fi) Summary (in English) Smart specialisation strategy summary (epliitto.fi) 1473/1500

D.4.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument Yes To achieve the goal of growth in the travel sector, the policy has presented several relevant solutions. For this reason, it is envisioned that the main improvements will be new projects financed by the instrument. With the goal of improved energy efficiency in accommodation. The project will come up with valuable points in decarbonising the tourism sector infrastructure on a broader spectrum. The best practices from other regions will serve as examples and ideas for new projects that can take on some of the identified problems. For example, the rapid changes in the flow of tourist presents a significant challenge for accommodation providers, as buildings have a long lifetime, and they consume energy with or without occupants. Accommodation buildings have longer periods of no occupancy when compared to residential buildings and would greatly benefit from automated/distance-controlled temperature drops etc. These types of changes will increase sustainability and lower costs. 992/1500

Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

63/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

0/1500

D.4.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 4 Partner PP06 Thermopolis What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)? Thermopolis Ltd serves as one of the expert stakeholders that the Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia calls on when working on updating or evaluating policies. The expertise of Thermopolis is found in the topics of energy, energy efficiency, sustainability, and low carbon economy. Thermopolis has several years of experiences, in being an expert on energy related topics in relation to the policies of the Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia. In the project, Thermopolis will be working in this familiar role of being a technical expert working together with the Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia to impact the chosen policy. 640/1000

What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? Energy efficiency in buildings and renewable energy production is at the core of the expertise of Thermopolis. This expertise is based on the educational and working history of the employees, the fact that Thermopolis has participated in projects dealing with energy efficiency in buildings and in the fact of keeping up to date of what is going on in the field via networks and trainings. Another aspect that is especially important for the project is the aspect of impacting the users. Thermopolis has several years of consumer energy advising and can provided insight and ideas on ways to involve the occupants. 616/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. Thermopolis will benefit from the project through the exchange of knowledge and discovering new idea to further energy efficiency. Thermopolis will take the role of technical expert for the Region of South Ostrobothnia. In co-operation with the advisory partner Thermopolis will prepare the templates for the SWOT and PESTEL analysis.

336/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. Is not involved in other Interreg Europe proposal

49/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

64/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.4.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 4 Partner PP07 Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? During the 2014–2020 programming period we have carried out several international cooperation projects. Relevant to this topic: Co2mmunity (Interreg Baltic Sea Region) – Co-producing and co-financing renewable community energy projects. The aim of Co2mmunity project was to promote the awareness of community energy (CE) and to increase the exploitation of renewable energy in South Ostrobothnia. Community energy refers to energy projects where local people are actively involved and the sources of energy are e.g., solar, geothermal, hydropower and biomass.

559/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. RCSO benefit from the project through the exchange of experience and by discovering new ideas how to further improve energy efficiency. This will help towards overall goal - carbon negativity and cutting emissions by 80% from 2005 levels.

238/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia is the Programme Responsible Authority of the Regional Programme for 2022-2025. As this is often chosen by the stakeholders as the policy instrument for improvement, the Regional Council is involved with several applications either as a partner or as an associated policy authority. Other topics that RSCO is working on include food industry, corporate social responsibility and development related to distance working. RSCO has the capacity to implement all projects. RCSO will hire project managers for all projects that are approved. In projects where RCSO is an associated policy partner, people will be allocated from among the permanent staff.

688/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

65/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.4.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 4 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries. You have 7 entries.

Visit Lakeus Ltd (promotion of regional tourism) 48/300

Sedu vocational education and training institute (tourisim/construction sectors) 80/300

Leader Aisapari (Local action group) 36/300

South Ostrobothnia Chamber of Commerce 38/300

Into Seinäjoki (The business development organisation of the city of Seinäjoki) 79/300

SeAMK (Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences) 48/300

The University Consortium of Seinäjoki/Tampere University/Professorships of Alvar Aalto (architecture) 102/300

D.4.4 Pilot action under policy instrument Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument? No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

66/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.5 Policy instrument 5 D.5.1 Territorial context and general description D.5.1.1 Territorial context What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory. The Municipality of Campobasso is the leader partner of the Urban Authority of Campobasso that is an Urban Authority (UA) as expected by the art. 7 related to the integrated sustainable urban development of the ERDF regulation (Reg. 1301/2013) that include 18 municipalities. It is established by the Regional Operational Programme ERDF and ESF of the Molise Region (2014/2020 - 2021/2027) with the aim to define its urban strategy with specific development assets and activities, for example: • Reduce the energy consumption in the public and private buildings also with the use of renewable energy solutions; • Promote and valorise the natural, cultural and historical heritage; • Support the competitiveness of the local enterprises; • Increase the employment opportunity also with the creation of new businesses.

The Municipality of Campobasso is carrying out the interventions already identified in the strategic plan approved by the regional operational program of the Molise region in the tourism sector which points on the development of the cultural sector and on the promotion of the tourism also using the new energy efficiency technologies. These can only be achieved (beside other interventions) with transferring of good practices from DETOCS on energy efficiency in tourist infrastructure and measures that support tourism sector in lowering their GHG. 1368/1500

D.5.1.2 General description of the policy instrument Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned). "Let's build the future together: new connections for the Campobasso Vast Area Strategy" - Strategic Plan for the Campobasso Vast Area

134/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)? No Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument Local Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Partner Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. PP08 Municipality of Campobasso Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

67/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

The Urban Authority of Campobasso has defined its urban strategy in the document “Strategy of Urban Development of the Urban Authority of Campobasso” with the following thematic objectives: • Reduce the energy consumption in the public building also with the use of renewable energy solutions; • Increase the quote of energy needs produced with integrated distribution system (Smartgrid); • Promote and increase the sustainable mobility and intelligent transportation system; • Promote and valorise the natural, cultural and historical heritage; • Support the competitiveness and sustainability of the local enterprises; • Improve the efficiency and the quality of the public services; • Increase the employment opportunity also with the creation of new businesses. In the above-mentioned document, to achieve the strategic aim, have been identified funds on the following thematic objectives: • TO 3 – “Competitiveness in the productive sector” that points, in particular, to sustain the companies that wants create tourist products with the experimentation of new models and innovation technologies; • TO5 – “Environment, culture and tourism” that foresees the realization of actions to protect and valorize the cultural heritages; 1417/1500

D.5.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument Yes The comparison and exchange of good practices, that will take place during the project activities, will allow for the acquisition of new knowledge that can improve the policies and actions that the Municipality of Campobasso is implementing as part of its development strategy, especially in the tourism and energy sectors. As managing authority of the urban strategy, the municipality will involve the other 18 municipalities in the project activities in order to raise the level of exchange of good practices among the project partners and the impact at local level on the policy instrument. Thanks to the project activities we expect to improve the policy instrument financing new projects related to sustainable tourism activities and to insert the topic in the urban strategy document that is now under development.

Municipality of Campobasso wants to improve the policy instrument use toward the financing of new projects and initiatives regarding the use of new technologies in tourism, support the competitiveness of enterprises, Increase employment, increase distributed energy generation-solar-PV in hotels.instrument financing new projects related to sustainable tourism activities and to insert the topic in the urban strategy document that is now under development. 1278/1500

Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself Yes The comparison and exchange of good practices, that will take place during the project activities, will allow for the acquisition of new knowledge that can improve the policies and actions that the Municipality of Campobasso is implementing as part of its development strategy, especially in the tourism and energy sectors. As managing authority of the urban strategy, the municipality will involve the other 18 municipalities in the project activities in order to raise the level of exchange of good practices among the project partners and the impact at local level on the policy instrument. Thanks to the project activities we expect to improve the policy instrument financing new projects related to sustainable tourism activities and to insert the topic in the urban strategy document that is now under development. Municipality of Campobasso wants to improve the policy instrument use toward the financing of new projects and initiatives regarding the use of new technologies in tourism, support the competitiveness of enterprises, Increase employment, increase distributed energy generation-solar-PV in hotels.instrument financing new projects related to sustainable tourism activities and to insert the topic in the urban strategy document that is now under development. https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

68/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

1278/1500

D.5.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 5 Partner PP08 Municipality of Campobasso What are the partner’s competences and experiences in the issue addressed by the project? The municipality is the managing authority of the Urban Area of Campobasso that include 18 municipalities. The role that the Municipality of Campobasso wants to obtain participating in the project are: to share energy efficiency meausers in local tourism infrastructure with partners, to transfer new models and tools capable to promote sustainable tourism; to know and share good practices with the aim to increase capacities of tourism institutions on how to reduce impacts on environment; to create and support the local tourism system , identifying new tools, building new quality and sustainable products and creating promotional actions toward EE targets; create and reinforce public and private networks and relationships between cultural and tourist entities in Italy and abroad; to promote the use of new EE technologies in tourism; promote and increase the use of distributed energy generation-solar-PV in hotels. 924/1000

How will the partner benefit from the cooperation? In case this partner plays a particular role in the project (e.g., responsible for a specific topic, for communication activities), please also indicate it here. The participation will allow developing policies useful to improve the local tourism energy efficiency and will support reduction of GHG emissions. The participation will support the definition of strategies within the Local Urban Strategy in the Regional Operational Programme of the Molise Region with the aim to increase the share of renewables in local energy mix, to increase the level of energy efficiency among local tourism infrastructure and integration of novel energy technologies. It will be an opportunity to increase networking among identified events and raise competence/skills in the field tackled. The project will bring benefits to the entire territory thanks to new development opportunities in the sustainable energy efficient tourism.

757/1000

In case the partner is involved in several Interreg Europe applications/ projects, please justify this multiple involvement. Is not involved in other Interreg Europe proposals.

51/1000

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

69/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.5.3 Stakeholder group relevant for policy instrument 5 Please provide an indicative list of the most relevant stakeholders (i.e., name of the organisation concerned) to be involved in the project. It is recommended to have no more than 12 entries. You have 10 entries.

Assoviaggi Molise: professional associations of tourism operators 65/300

Regione Molise: regional government, energy and tourism departments will be involved in the project 99/300

Local Action Group Molise verso il 2000: local development agency with experience on sustainable tourism projects 113/300

Legambiente Molise: regional office of the most important environmental association in Italy 92/300

University of Molise: public university, department of tourism and environment will be involved as a stakeholder in the activities 130/300

Camera di Commercio del Molise: regional chamber of commerce in direct contact of the widest network of SMEs at local level 123/300

ARES: local SMEs with experience on local tourism and cultural promotion projects 81/300

Confcommercio Molise: professional associations including accommodation companies 81/300

Muse: non-profit associations dealing with tourism promotion 60/300

JustMo: cultural SMEs involved in tourism activities 52/300

D.5.4 Pilot action under policy instrument Is a pilot action proposed to improve this policy instrument? No

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

70/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

D.6 Policy instrument 6 D.6.1 Territorial context and general description D.6.1.1 Territorial context What is the state of play of the issue addressed by the project in the territory covered by the policy instrument? Which challenge needs to be overcome in this territory? Please be as specific as possible and provide detailed information on the characteristics of the territory. Due to the extremely unstable situation in Europe nowadays, the tourism sector in Bulgaria, including in Burgas as one of the main tourist centers in the country, is facing serious challenges, like: - Covid-19 pandemic; - Outflow of tourists; - Constantly increasing prices of different energy carriers, which results in constant increase of prices of electricity and natural gas. In order to mitigate the negative impact of the global situation, and to reduce dependency of the tourism sector by the global trends with direct impact on electricity, natural gas and fuels prices, it is urgently needed to undertake immediate actions towards increasing awareness and realizing the importance of using local and sustainable RES by accommodation sites, to improve energy efficiency in infrastructures, as well as introduction of sustainable business models. There are about 6,600 beds for accommodation in the municipality and these are only in hotels, without counting villas, small tourism houses, and lodgings.

Before the Pandemic situation and the energy crisis, the number of tourists reached almost 200,000 people, but this number decreased significantly in last two years. Prices of main energy carriers (electricity, natural gas, and fuels) have increased by about 100% just for one year, from 2021 to 2022, which puts the tourism sector in Bulgaria at an emergency situation and immediate policy actions are required. 1426/1500

D.6.1.2 General description of the policy instrument Please name the policy instrument addressed (for Investment for jobs and growth goal programmes, please provide the name of the operational programme concerned). Long-term programme for encouraging the use of RES and biofuels 2021 – 2030

75/150

Is this instrument an Investment for jobs and growth goal programme (i.e. national or regional operational programme)? No Please indicate the geographical scope of this instrument Local Please select how the authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved in the project: The authority responsible for this policy instrument is involved as…

Partner Please select the authority responsible for this policy instrument. PP10 Burgas Municipality Please describe the main features of this policy instrument (e.g. objective, characteristics, priority or measure addressed).

https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

71/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

This policy document was developed in compliance with Art. 10, para 1 and para 2 of the Bulgarian Renewable Energy Sources Act. The content and objectives of this strategic document are in line with the Integrated Energy and Climate Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria until 2030, the National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NEAP), as well as the guidelines of the Sustainable Energy Development Agency for preparation of programs to promote the use of energy from renewable sources and biofuels. Long - term goal 2 Raising awareness and encouraging private investment in the construction of renewable energy installations in Burgas Municipality. The indicators for achieving the goal are as follows: - information campaign for different target groups (end users, industry, energy and fuel traders, tourism sector); - new photovoltaic plants with a total capacity of 5 MWp in business (energy is used for own needs); - new installations for biomass utilization (outside the housing and municipal building stock) with a total capacity of 1 MW. Long - term goal 3 Providing the necessary conditions for effective planning, implementation and monitoring of policies for the promotion and utilization of energy from renewable sources. 1226/1500

D.6.1.3 Expected policy improvement What kind of improvement do you envisage for this instrument? New projects financed by the instrument No

0/1500

Change in the management of the instrument No

0/1500

Revision of the instrument itself Yes The main aim of this policy instrument is to encourage the development and utilization of locally available and sustainable renewable energy sources (RES) while also considering the need of energy efficiency in various types of buildings. However, the policy emphasizes on the public sector, use of RES in public buildings. [Long term goal 2 also mentions private investments in RES, but it does not mention the high potential for RES deployment and EE in the tourism sector, which is one of the main sectors in this particular municipality] On the other side, most of the tourism accommodation buildings (hotels, villas, houses, etc.) are private. The municipality wants to explore the possibility to influence on these privately managed tourism places for accommodation by introducing and implementing new EE measures into this policy document, based on the knowledge and good practices gained during the implementation of this project. The municipality wants to stimulate not only the larger deployment of EE and RES into the tourism sector, but also the use of more efficient heating and cooling systems which use RES as energy source. However, in order to do this, the municipality needs to adopt and implement new policy measures for sustainable energy and tourism simultaneously. https://portal.interregeurope.eu/projects/411/print-view

72/119

2/6/23, 1:18 PM

Portal Interreg Europe

1288/1500

D.6.2 Partner(s) addressing policy instrument 6 Partner PP09 Regional Energy Agency - Pazardjik What is the policy relevance of this partner (the link to the authority responsible for the policy instrument addressed and its capacity to influence this instrument)? REAP is already working on local policies with Burgas, like the Integrated Development Plan, and the agency also participated actively in the development of this policy instrument, the “Longterm programme for encouraging the use of RES and biofuels 2021-2030”. Both partners implemented some targeted initiatives aiming to improve energy performance among vulnerable citizens and to tackle issues like energy poverty (project FIESTA) in Burgas. Results of this project were successful, but they were targeting at a specific group of citizens: vulnerable households, threatened by energy poverty. REAP will guide Burgas municipality on identification and application of best EU practices related to introduction of EE and RES in tourism sites, and how these best practices can be integrated into the local policy instrument. Both partners are also working together on innovative education methods addressing topics like circular bioeconomy, protection of environment and sustainable energy. 991/1000