Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Republika Srpska have more than 2.2 million BAM at their disposal to improve energy efficiency, achieve savings, enhance business operations, and ensure long-term sustainability.
The Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund of Republika Srpska recently announced a public competition for the allocation of non-refundable funds under the European Union Support Package to mitigate the negative effects of the energy crisis and promote energy transition in the Balkan economy.
Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises can apply for projects such as renovating exterior carpentry, installing thermal insulation, replacing heating and cooling systems, and improving energy efficiency in production processes and interior lighting.
For enterprises majority-owned by women, the maximum amount of allocated non-refundable funds is 50% of the total investment, not exceeding 50,000 BAM, with a minimum of 10,000 BAM. For other enterprises, it is 45% of the total investment, up to a maximum of 45,000 BAM. Businesses that apply for the competition are required to secure the same amount of money. The competition will remain open until the distribution of the 2.29 million BAM, which is the available fund amount.
Dejan Rauš, the spokesperson for the Chamber of Commerce of Republika Srpska, stated that this public competition, along with initiatives supporting energy transition and assisting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, can have a significant impact on the economy of Republika Srpska.
“Energy efficiency has long-term economic and environmental benefits. Investments in energy efficiency can lead to reduced energy costs, improved business operations, and long-term sustainability. Additionally, non-refundable funds for the mentioned projects can certainly enhance competitiveness for businesses,” said Rauš.
Saša Aćić, the Director of the Employers’ Union of Republika Srpska, emphasized the importance of domestic companies implementing energy savings in various ways and highlighted the positive impact of the support provided. He expressed the hope that non-refundable funds would increase further.
The Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund also announced a competition for the allocation of non-refundable funds to households in Republika Srpska planning to replace exterior carpentry, thermal insulation, or heating systems. Households can receive a maximum of 50% of the total investment, not exceeding 5,000 BAM, from the 5.8 million BAM allocated from the EU Budget Support Package to mitigate the negative effects of the energy crisis.
Source: Glas Srpske
