As is known, Kyrgyzstan is facing a constant increase in energy consumption, which exceeds the electricity production capacity. More than 50% of primary energy is consumed by buildings, highlighting the need for reforms in the construction sector to improve energy efficiency. The development of modern construction standards and the implementation of an energy certification system have become important aspects of state policy, especially in the context of increasing energy consumption and climate change.
At the legislative level, key documents have been adopted in the country that introduce new obligations for the construction industry. In particular, the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On the Energy Efficiency of Buildings" and Government Resolution No. 531 establish minimum energy efficiency requirements for new and reconstructed buildings. The law mandates energy certification at all stages of the building lifecycle: from design and construction to commissioning and renovation. Minimum requirements for buildings are defined according to class "B" for energy efficiency.
Upon completion of the certification process, owners receive a certificate indicating the energy efficiency class and recommendations for reducing heat losses. This system makes the assessment of energy efficiency more transparent and contributes to the development of a quality construction market. The state supports these legislative reforms by developing renewable energy sources, modernizing infrastructure, and implementing sustainable construction standards.
In response to new requirements and the need for qualified personnel, UNISON Group has started implementing the project "Accessibility of Quality Consulting Services on Energy Efficiency Across the Country" since August 2024, which is supported by the IKI (International Climate Initiative) small grants program and funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK) in collaboration with the German Federal Foreign Office.
The project aims to create a national system for training specialists, developing a methodological base, and strengthening regional capacity in energy certification.
As part of this initiative, large-scale training events were organized in seven regions of the country: Osh, Batken, Jalal-Abad, Naryn, Issyk-Kul, Talas, as well as in Bishkek and Chui region. 220 specialists, including architects, engineers, local government representatives, and university lecturers, underwent training in building energy certification, which allowed the creation of the first regional consulting teams ready to apply the legislatively established requirements.
A key element of the project was the training program for trainers involving international experts from Italy and Slovakia. This enabled six universities and representatives of the academic community to integrate modules on energy certification into educational programs in engineering, construction, and architecture. Guest lectures were held at universities to introduce the profession of energy auditor and opportunities in the field of energy efficiency.
International experts also helped to update the methodologies for conducting energy certification and implement digital assessment tools, allowing the use of modern standards in the context of digitalization. The studies of the situation in the country and the proposed recommendations for the development of public and state institutions in the field of energy efficiency are of particular value.
To support specialists, the first digital network of energy efficiency consultants was created. The increase in the number of participants indicates a growing interest in energy certification and the need for expert assistance. This network has become a platform for knowledge exchange, consultations, and coordination of actions between experts, the academic community, and regional partners.
In the context of increasing energy consumption and pressure on the national energy system, Kyrgyzstan needs to improve the regulatory framework and institutions regulating the energy efficiency of buildings. In this regard, two National Dialogues were held in Bishkek and Osh with the participation of more than 200 people, including government bodies and international partners. As a result of the meetings, a joint appeal was prepared to the responsible agencies with recommendations for reforming legislation and strengthening institutional infrastructure, which became an important step towards aligning state policy with professional practice.
The project also had a significant impact on the regions, contributing to the growth of technical competence, raising awareness, and forming demand for certification services.
Thus, a foundation was created for the sustainable development of the energy-efficient services market and the implementation of legislation, which in the future will contribute to reducing energy consumption, saving household budgets, and enhancing the energy security of Kyrgyzstan.
The project "Accessibility of Quality Consulting Services on Energy Efficiency Across the Country" laid a solid foundation for the successful implementation of mandatory energy certification as provided by the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic and strengthened national potential by creating a professional ecosystem that will continue to develop even after the project is completed.
