Category: Energy Efficiency

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All Energy Efficiency

How renewable energy sources can contribute to energy efficiency in public institutions and private households

How renewable energy sources can contribute to energy efficiency in public institutions and private households

The lack of energy security in a country can lead to economic instability and negatively impact social development. The Republic of Moldova, heavily reliant on energy imports, must diversify its energy sources to ensure a sustainable future. Investments in renewable energy are the optimal solution to reduce energy vulnerabilities and stimulate economic growth.

Drawing from his professional experience managing over 320 heating plants in public institutions, Valeriu Chiciuc, a national consultant in the use of thermal energy from solid biofuels, encourages homeowners and public institution directors to implement renewable energy solutions.

“For us, it is crucial to utilize renewable energy resources. First and foremost, solar energy, which is free, non-polluting, and highly beneficial for implementing solar systems for domestic hot water production and photovoltaic installations for electricity generation. The second source is biomass potential. The third is wind energy installations. We also have solutions involving biogas potential, which is still in its early stages in the Republic of Moldova,” he explains.

A team of specialists from abroad and Moldova analyzed the potential of solid biofuel sources across all regions of the country. They found that every area has the capacity to install such systems. Chiciuc emphasized that inefficient stoves and systems could be replaced with solid biofuel boilers.

“As firewood becomes scarcer in the southern region, an ingenious solution is to use plant residues to produce fuel. This eco-friendly fuel can be used in special stoves that are more efficient and cleaner than traditional ones. Additionally, depending on the area, the type of boiler was also analyzed. Biomass boilers are the second energy source for those who own gas-fired heating systems,” he added.

Moldova benefits from partner-funded projects for designing and acquiring high-efficiency biomass boilers. However, over 370 public institutions in Moldova still rely on stoves, including 49 kindergartens.

When investing in the installation of a biomass boiler, the investment is long-term, contributing to cost savings. Why? Because these boilers produce heat much more cheaply than traditional stoves.

Chiciuc highlights that a homeowner should know how to calculate the capacity of the boiler heating the house, how, and where to position this system. The current state of the house is also crucial, and the dedicated room for the boiler must meet fire safety requirements and be well-ventilated.

Energy efficiency in a home starts with the owner. If the owner aims to implement the necessary measures, they can reap numerous long-term benefits. By investing in thermal insulation, efficient heating systems, and renewable energy sources, the homeowner significantly reduces energy costs, protects the environment, increases property value, and improves home comfort for the entire family.

Whether you’re a homeowner, craftsman, or local mayor, the “MĂ IMPLIC” project’s Energy Efficiency component offers a range of free informational materials (guides, leaflets, brochures) with practical recommendations for improving energy efficiency in homes. These resources are available to citizens, technicians, and local public administration representatives, providing clear and accessible solutions to reduce resource consumption and improve thermal comfort year-round. All materials can be downloaded from the website – www.ma-implic.md/eneff.

The campaign to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency in rural areas of Moldova is implemented through the “MĂ IMPLIC” project by Skat Consulting and the National Center for Sustainable Energy (CNED), with support from the Swiss Government.

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All Energy Efficiency

How to choose the right doors and windows for your home? Tips from engineer Ion Ulinici to improve comfort in your house

How to choose the right doors and windows for your home? Tips from engineer Ion Ulinici to improve comfort in your house

A significant portion of Moldova’s residents inherit houses from grandparents and great-grandparents, often built decades ago using construction techniques now considered outdated. As a result, these homes are not energy-efficient, with heat escaping in winter and cool air in summer through walls, doors, windows, attics, and floors.

The percentage of heat loss in a home depends on its type, the condition of its doors and windows, and the materials used in construction. To achieve a comfortable and energy-efficient home, appropriate measures must be taken.

Ion Ulinici, a construction engineer and energy auditor with extensive knowledge in energy efficiency, recommends replacing outdated windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient options.

“If the existing frames are old, cannot be restored, don’t close properly, or let the wind pass through even when shut, they must be replaced. When replacing frames, opt for double-glazed windows with at least two panes and LOW-E protection. The frame can be made of wood, aluminum with a thermal barrier, or PVC. If you choose PVC, go for a profile with at least five chambers.”

The expert emphasizes that window installation should only be done by specialists and that every operation requires professional evaluation. When purchasing new frames, homeowners should check for cracks, poorly welded corners, and functional opening and closing mechanisms.

Walls are the largest surface through which heat can escape, making wall insulation one of the most crucial energy efficiency measures. Another effective method is insulating the attic, which is considered one of the most affordable interventions. However, specialists stress that before starting any work, a thorough inspection of the structures is essential.

“Wall insulation is one of the most significant energy efficiency measures because walls account for the largest surface area of heat loss. Before starting insulation work, the structure’s technical condition should be inspected to ensure there are no cracks, wall displacements, or falling plaster. Attic insulation, however, is the most cost-effective intervention in construction, delivering the highest impact relative to cost per square meter. Before beginning, an inspection of the attic is necessary to ensure the ceiling can handle additional loads after insulation.”

Energy efficiency measures are vital for both home comfort and the health of its occupants. Ulinici also encourages homeowners to ventilate their homes regularly to maintain fresh and clean air. Every action taken today to save energy can help reduce future utility bills and secure a sustainable future.

Whether you’re a homeowner, craftsman, or local mayor, the “MĂ IMPLIC” project’s Energy Efficiency component provides free informative materials (guides, leaflets, brochures) with practical recommendations for improving home energy efficiency. These resources are available to citizens, technicians, and local administration representatives, offering clear and accessible solutions to reduce resource consumption and enhance thermal comfort in all seasons. All materials can be downloaded from the website www.ma-implic.md/eneff.

This campaign to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency in rural areas of Moldova is implemented through the “MĂ IMPLIC” project by Skat Consulting and the National Center for Sustainable Energy (CNED), with the support of the Swiss Government.