ReHABITA - Real Change in Ploiești through Energy Efficiency and Social Solidarity
Over the past six months, the European project LIFE ReHABITA has begun making a tangible difference in Ploiești, driving a real transformation in the city by combining energy efficiency with social responsibility. Implemented by the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Agency “AE3R Ploiești-Prahova”, in partnership with the Ploiești Municipality, the project is focused on helping vulnerable households affected by energy poverty through targeted building renovations and citizen support services.
In several neighborhoods across the city, apartment buildings included in the project have already begun undergoing energy-efficient renovations. Thermal insulation, window replacements, and heating system upgrades are helping to transform these homes into more comfortable, healthier living spaces. For dozens of families who previously struggled with high energy bills and poorly insulated apartments, these improvements are life-changing. The renovations not only reduce energy consumption and improve quality of life, but also significantly lower CO₂ emissions—aligning with both European and local climate goals.
A key pillar of the project is the creation of a One-Stop Shop at Ploiești Municipality, offering free guidance and consultations for citizens interested in energy-efficient home renovations. In recent months, this office has become a valuable community resource, helping residents understand how to access available funding, navigate renovation procedures, and assert their rights—particularly those in vulnerable situations.
AE3R has played a leading role in building bridges between public institutions and civil society. On November 27, 2024, AE3R and PMP hosted a workshop that brought together NGOs and social service providers to strengthen local collaboration in tackling energy poverty. The event opened up dialogue about shared challenges and the importance of coordinated efforts.
Later, on January 14, 2025, a citizen-focused workshop was held in partnership with a residents' association from a recently renovated building. The meeting provided a platform for tenants to share their experiences and showcase the concrete benefits of the project—demonstrating how community involvement can enhance trust and improve outcomes.
ReHABITA is not just a technical initiative—it is helping to reshape Ploiești into a fairer and more sustainable city. Informational boards placed at the entrances of buildings included in the program keep residents up to date with the renovation process and build transparency around public investment. This visibility strengthens community engagement and encourages residents to take an active role in the city's energy transition.
Through these efforts, AE3R and PMP are setting a new standard for socially inclusive energy reform. The work done so far is just the beginning—more buildings are expected to be included, and more lives improved, in the months ahead.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Life funding instrument for environment and climate action under grant agreement no 101120713. The content of this website is the sole responsibility of the ReHABITA project and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the European Union.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of ReHABITA project only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them