1

Why the project matters

Public buildings in the Mediterranean suffer from low energy efficiency, leading to high consumption, higher utility bills, and increased energy poverty. From 1980 to 2016, primary energy consumption in the region rose by approximately 1.7% annually, and energy demand in southeast Mediterranean countries is projected to increase by nearly 118% by 2040. In the MENA region, buildings account for about 17% of total energy consumption and 40–45% of electricity. In the EU, 75% of buildings constructed before 2000 are energy inefficient, with buildings responsible for 40% of energy use and over one-third of energy-related emissions. This inefficiency, along with low public awareness of energy-saving behaviors, slows progress towards energy independence and increases vulnerability, especially in climate-stressed areas.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To demonstrate how energy efficiency, solar energy, and smart energy management can improve the energy performance of public buildings and outdoor areas across the Mediterranean through jointly implemented pilots.
• To support users, citizens, public authorities, and institutions in improving their environment and quality of life through technical upgrades, social behavior change, and policy reforms that promote sustainability, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.

 

3

Expected change

• Joint roadmap developed for energy efficiency and solar-powered outdoor areas with smart benches, used to guide pilot demonstrations.
• Established regional platform to strengthen energy efficiency in the Mediterranean area through knowledge sharing and coordination.
• Proposed policy reform through a dedicated paper supporting improvements to institutional and policy instruments for long-term energy planning.

 

4

What the project delivers

• Joint Roadmap for Energy Efficiency and RESt Area Development including common methodology and timeline for project implementation.
• 6 pilot projects in Greece, Türkiye, Spain, Egypt, Tunisia and Jordan upgrading public buildings(University of Patras (Greece), IZTECH – Izmir Institute of Technology (Türkiye), ISSTE – • • Higher Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technologies in Nabeul (Tunisia), Wadi Rum Visitor Center (Jordan), College of Engineering and Technology – AASTMT (Egypt), I.I.S. Sallustio Bandini School in Siena (Italy) to be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
• 6 outdoor spaces equipped with solar trees and smart benches, on the exteriors of the pilot buildings, offering clean energy use for charging and public engagement.
• Platform for training, energy monitoring, and knowledge sharing.
• Policy paper with reform proposals for institutional and policy instruments.
• Energy games to inform kids and professionals to build awareness on energy efficiency and renewable in a creative and engaging way.

 

5

Who benefits

• 20–30 local public authorities, including energy departments of municipalities hosting pilot sites, mentored and engaged.
• 7 national public authorities, including ministries and agencies for energy and environment, informed through evidence and policy.
• 12 pilot building managers, benefiting from reduced operational costs and compliance with energy efficiency performance.
• 12 public pilot buildings and RESt4GREEN areas users benefiting from improved comfort, access to solar-powered amenities (charging stations, shade, lighting), and increased ecological awareness.
• 100 public participants, engaged through awareness activities and social impact initiatives promoting energy-saving behaviors.