Energy efficiency support: Nearly 50,000 families receive vouchers for household appliances
Sustainable energy benefits both the environment and people. More efficient resource consumption means less waste and lower bills. The "Ecovoucher" program—which helps families replace old household appliances with new ones—is soon set to reach a total of 50,000 purchases.
Eligible families receive vouchers worth 7,000 lei, which cover up to 70% of the cost of a new washing machine or refrigerator.
At the same time, other programs funded by the Energy Efficiency Fund for the residential sector contribute to the energy-related renovation of individual homes and apartment buildings; beneficiaries have already spent one winter in much more comfortable homes, with significantly lower energy bills.
"Through the EcoVoucher program, old household appliances are being replaced with new ones, and we will soon reach a milestone of 50,000 beneficiary families. (...) Energy-vulnerable families have already spent a winter in much more comfortable homes, with significantly lower energy bills," stated Ion Muntean, Director of the National Center for Sustainable Energy (CNED), on the "Bună Dimineața" show on Moldova1.
To help people take advantage of these opportunities, CNED specialists provide information about available programs, guide individuals through the application process, and assist with processing their files.
Diana Cebotari, a senior specialist in the Application Receipt and Processing Department, says that her work allows her to become familiar with the energy sector and to support citizens in accessing the available programs.
"For me, working at the National Center for Sustainable Energy is a great opportunity; I learn more about the energy sector, and, of course, I am able to help people—citizens—implement energy efficiency measures," says Diana Cebotari.
Irina Țerigrădean, Head of the Policy Compliance Directorate for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources, has been with the institution for nearly seven years; she says her team and shared mission have motivated her to keep working.
"What has motivated me the most is the team I am part of—my colleagues. Our institution is a growing organization; it is in the midst of development and on a clear upward trajectory," says Irina Țerigrădean.
Through the projects it implements and its public outreach efforts, the CNED (National Center for Sustainable Energy) aims to assist households, encourage responsible energy consumption, and reduce energy waste.
Since launching the EcoVoucher program, 48,813 families have received support. Appliances purchased using these vouchers include 23,004 refrigerators and 25,773 washing machines. During the current session—running from November 6 to November 22—vouchers worth 7,000 lei each will be provided to 2,960 families.
Priority in the distribution of vouchers goes to families with more minor children, as well as households that include at least two individuals over the age of 63. Furthermore, 10% of the total number of available vouchers are reserved for persons with severe disabilities.
