The conference titled "National Dialogue on Energy Efficiency: Achievements, Challenges, Prospects" took place in Bishkek. The event was dedicated to issues related to the development of energy-efficient construction and the implementation of mandatory certification of buildings based on energy characteristics.
The conference was organized with the support of the Ministry of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services and gathered representatives from government institutions, international organizations, experts, the academic community, and the private sector.
Considering the growing energy consumption, more than 50% of which is attributed to buildings, energy efficiency issues are becoming particularly relevant for the construction industry in Kyrgyzstan. Important regulations have already been adopted in the country, including the KR Law "On the Energy Efficiency of Buildings" and Government Resolution No. 531, which establish minimum energy efficiency requirements for new and reconstructed buildings.
According to the legislation, energy certification of buildings is mandatory at all stages of their life cycle — from design and construction to operation and renovation. The minimum requirements correspond to the upper limit of class "B" for energy efficiency. Certification allows owners to receive recommendations for reducing heat consumption, ensuring transparency in the process and stimulating the development of quality construction services.
In response to new requirements and the shortage of qualified specialists, UNISON Group will launch the project "Accessibility of Quality Consulting Services on Energy Efficiency Nationwide" starting August 2024. This project is supported by the IKI (International Climate Initiative) small grants program and is financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany (BMWK) along with the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.
As part of this initiative, extensive training seminars were conducted in all regions of Kyrgyzstan, with over 220 specialists participating — architects, engineers, local government representatives, and university lecturers. The first regional consultant groups have been established, ready to apply legislative norms in practice.
Particular attention was paid to training trainers and updating energy audit and certification methodologies using digital technologies. The first digital network of energy efficiency consultants was also created, serving as a platform for professional communication and knowledge exchange.
As a result of the national dialogues held in Bishkek and Osh, recommendations were developed to improve the regulatory framework and institutional mechanisms in the field of energy efficiency. The implementation of these measures will allow for a long-term reduction in energy consumption, increase the country's energy security, and lower household costs.
The project creates a solid foundation for the sustainable development of the energy efficiency services market and the formation of a professional ecosystem that will continue to evolve even after its completion.
