Accelerating Energy-Efficiency Investments among SMEs in the Western Balkans

The study visit explored how financial and non-financial support can help SMEs identify, prepare and implement energy-efficiency investments. Drawing on OECD analysis and Croatian experience, it provided opportunities to exchange practices and discuss approaches that could be adapted to Western Balkan contexts, including through EU integration and accession.

The two-day programme combined a workshop on 15 October with field visits on 16 October. The first day examined energy-efficiency investment trends, financing instruments and the wider business-support ecosystem. On the second day, participants visited ETIKGRAF and Marservis to explore how two Istrian businesses are putting energy-efficiency investments into practice.

Ivona Peternel, PhD, represented Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, presenting universities as connectors between SMEs, skills, and EU project opportunities. Examples included industry-linked education, student placements, and the monthly Breakfast with Entrepreneurs, bringing together academics, companies and local support institutions. She highlighted three recommendations: involve universities as intermediaries alongside chambers and agencies; invest in the skills of those preparing projects; and build on EU programmes and networks accessible to Western Balkan partners. These connections can help translate business ideas into fundable projects.