As energy prices surge across the Western Balkans, households are seeking ways to curb soaring heating and electricity bills. In response, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in partnership with local banks and donors, is driving investment in energy efficiency through its Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF).
This initiative, part of the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme, aims to promote sustainable energy solutions in the region.
One notable example is Erste Bank, which has pioneered the first green loan for residential buildings in Serbia, setting a precedent for energy-efficient investments in the housing sector.
The GEFF programme is co-financed by the European Union via the Western Balkans Investment Framework and supported by Austria, Denmark, Japan, and Switzerland through the High-Impact Partnership on Climate Action (HIPCA). Additional backing from international donors, including Canada, Finland, South Korea, and the UK, further strengthens the region’s commitment to sustainable energy practices and climate action.