How Can Renovation Become More Accessible? Vilnius Will Seek Solutions With European Cities

Renovating an apartment building should not require residents to become construction, finance or legal experts. That is the premise of the IRENE project, which will work through 2028 to make renovation easier for people with different financial and social circumstances.

Ten organizations from four European countries are taking part. Vilnius is one of four pilot cities, alongside Vilvoorde and Leuven in Belgium and Madrid in Spain. Their different experiences will be used to test which forms of assistance work in different conditions before applying successful solutions elsewhere in Europe.

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The IRENE project puts people and their ability to participate in energy changes at its center.

In Vilnius, the project will strengthen existing one-stop renovation services and seek ways to make them easier to reach for residents who face the greatest difficulties. The partners will examine barriers to participation, speak with communities and develop more effective financial, technical and legal guidance.

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We want renovation to be not only the creation of more energy-efficient homes, but also a real opportunity to improve the quality of life of those who need help most.

The project places residents at the center of the renovation process. It will analyze their experiences and needs, involve them in creating solutions, prepare recommendations and improve the skills of both residents and institutions involved in renovation.

IRENE also plans to establish Inclusive Energy Hubs, bringing together public institutions, researchers, communities, non-governmental organizations and market participants. Miguel Asín of the coordinating organization Global Factor said the project aims to ensure that renovation improves quality of life for those who need help most. Lina Bubulytė of Vilnius-based Atgaivinkime miestą said the city wants to share its experience while testing approaches that can make renovation simpler for residents.

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Renovation should not mean that residents have to become construction, finance or legal specialists themselves.