MEP – A Tool for Sustainable and Energy-Independent Development of Ukrainian Communities
An energy-independent community begins with a clear vision and a strategic approach to energy efficiency. A Municipal Energy Plan (MEP) serves as a roadmap that helps communities implement comprehensive and systematic changes in the field of energy efficiency.
The implementation of an MEP not only enables efficient energy resource management but also opens new opportunities for attracting investment, reducing CO₂ emissions, and strengthening the energy security and independence of communities.
As part of a two-year initiative implemented by DiXi Group experts with the support of the MATRA Program of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, MEPs were developed for 10 Ukrainian communities from 6 regions. For another ten, preliminary feasibility studies for energy efficiency measures were prepared.
"The State Agency on Energy Efficiency supports the implementation of MEPs at all levels. We provide methodological, organizational, and consulting support, and starting in October, we will launch a systematic collection of information on the implemented MEPs from communities and regional military administrations. This will help better coordinate efforts and maximize their effectiveness. Communities face real challenges. These include a lack of qualified specialists to professionally coordinate energy transitions, and limited access to up-to-date energy consumption data.
It is often difficult to integrate energy plans into general development strategies. Particularly acute is the need to adapt solutions for areas affected by the war. Most importantly, communities require comprehensive technical and methodological support from the state and its partners," said Anna Zamazeeva, Head of the State Agency on Energy Efficiency, during the presentation of the project’s achievements.
The first MEPs are being developed for the period up to 2030, enabling the creation of a long-term vision and the integration of energy efficiency projects and goals into the overall development strategy of the community.
Communities can now reach out either directly to the State Agency on Energy Efficiency or to the Decarbonization and Energy Efficiency Offices operating in eight regions of Ukraine. These offices have already become centers of expert support and are helping communities implement energy-efficient solutions.
Another important support mechanism for communities on their path to energy independence is the Decarbonization Fund of Ukraine, Joint Stock Company. The Fund is a key financial partner for enterprises, municipalities, and local self-government bodies aiming to modernize infrastructure, implement advanced energy-efficient technologies, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Olesya Mishchenko, Head of the Decarbonization Fund of Ukraine, emphasized during her speech that one of the main priorities of the Fund’s activities is close cooperation with communities.
"The Fund not only provides financing but also offers comprehensive consulting support at all stages of project implementation — from the initial idea to project completion. This includes assistance with project documentation, technical and economic feasibility analysis, and implementation support.
Today, communities in the Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, and Kyiv regions are already implementing projects that enable them to save local budget funds and introduce practical solutions. We are grateful to the communities that are already on the path to energy independence. To those just planning to begin — we encourage you to join," emphasized Olesya Mishchenko.
The experience of the project implemented by DiXi Group confirms: communities have the potential and the readiness to act. We call on communities to actively shape their own energy vision, develop Municipal Energy Plans (MEPs), make use of available financial support tools, and implement effective solutions.
The future of an energy-independent Ukraine is being born locally — in every community that chooses the path of sustainable development, resource efficiency, and climate responsibility.
