Energy Agency of Plovdiv presented the ReHABITA Office at the ABEA Conference: a one-stop shop for renovation and support of households in energy poverty

Energy Agency of Plovdiv took an active part in the XIX National Conference of the Association of Bulgarian Energy Agencies and Centers, dedicated this year to the theme “Cities in Transformation: Strategic Vision, Building Renovation Solutions, Energy Communities and New Skills.” The event was held on 27 November 2025 in Sofia and became an important platform for exchanging ideas and experience among representatives of state institutions, municipalities, financial organizations, businesses, and the civil sector. During the forum, participants discussed how cities can meet the growing requirements for energy savings, improve citizens’ quality of life, and find sustainable solutions to overcome energy poverty.

Photo credit: Energy Agency of Plovdiv

The conference showcased a number of good practices and effective approaches for implementing national and European policies in support of sustainable local energy development. Highlights included the climate plans of Sofia and Gabrovo, new mechanisms and policies for reducing energy poverty at the local level, examples of already established energy communities in Bulgaria, as well as opportunities for financing investments in energy efficiency and renovation of the residential building stock. Special attention was given to citizen involvement in the energy transition through the creation of one-stop-shops, which facilitate access to information, financing, and practical support.

Among the speakers were representatives of the European Commission, NetZeroCities, the European Investment Bank, the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, as well as mayors, heads of national funds, experts from local authorities, professional organizations, energy agencies, and NGOs. The conference attracted more than one hundred participants and was held in a hybrid format, enabling active engagement and discussions both on-site and online.

The team of Energy Agency of Plovdiv shared information with participants about the Life ReHABITA project and the services offered by ReHABITA Office in the city, which functions as a one-stop shop for the renovation of homes of households living in energy poverty.

Source: Energy Agency of Plovdiv Project 101120713-LIFE22-CET-LIFE Rehabita is co-funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.