Throughout May 2025, Ecoaction, in collaboration with the Czech humanitarian organisation People in Need, sought out civil society organisations that would implement renewable energy projects in Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions. The grant competition received 18 applications, from which three projects were selected to receive financial support. All selected projects will be implemented by October 31, 2025. Below, we present the plans of the winner organisations within the framework of their respective projects.
Training for the Trostianets community in Sumy region
The NGO Center for European Integration of Slobozhanshchyna will teach representatives of local government, heads of budgetary institutions, and municipal enterprises of the Trostianets community the basics of energy management, the implementation of renewable energy sources (RES), and the financing of “green” initiatives. The training programs cover issues such as conducting energy audits, planning and implementing RES, and using state and international financial instruments for energy-efficient projects.
Trained specialists will be able to effectively manage the community’s energy resources, prepare high-quality technical specifications, avoid overpayments, and implement rational energy solutions in schools, hospitals, and other establishments. The project also includes an information campaign through local media and the publication of reports showcasing stories of renewable energy implementation to inspire other communities. The result will be enhanced energy independence, reduced municipal budget expenditures on utilities, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels, allowing the savings to be redirected toward other important needs of the community.
Energy audit for seven communities in Dnipropetrovsk region
The project of the NGO Center for Economic Growth ”LRHub” will conduct energy audits of important social infrastructure (schools, outpatient clinics, administrative service centers) in seven communities of Dnipropetrovsk region to identify the potential for implementing energy-efficient solutions. Following the audit, a feasibility study and project documentation will be developed for the implementation of projects involving LED lighting, solar panels, heat pumps, and other similar technologies. For at least three facilities, documentation will be prepared to secure funding from state and donor programs.
In addition to technical measures, the project provides for the training of community energy managers through in-person and online seminars, where participants will gain knowledge in energy consumption monitoring, conducting audits, and assessing renewable energy potential. The communities will receive tools for carrying out independent energy assessments of buildings. An important component of the project is also an educational campaign among the youth of each community — including eco-quests, debates, and lectures for 9th–10th grade students — aimed at developing responsible energy consumption habits and fostering environmental awareness.
Transforming invasive species into an energy resource in Sumy region
The NGO Network of Eco-Stations of Ukraine is implementing a project aimed at preserving meadow-steppe areas of environmental and historical-cultural significance by utilizing excess phytomass. As part of the project, the “The Rock of Practical Botany” eco-station will serve as a base for developing and refining the technological process of harvesting, drying, shredding, and pelletizing hay and branches from invasive tree species. The resulting pellets will be used as supplementary fuel and animal feed. This approach will help maintain local biodiversity, prevent steppe overgrowth by invasive species, reduce fire risks, and make effective use of local biological resources, including the development of alternative heating sources.
The project also includes scientific research on the productivity and structure of the phytomass of meadow-steppe habitats in Sumy region, conducted through field expeditions and bicycle trips. The educational component is implemented through seminars, study trips, and workshops in educational institutions. Educational materials on steppe restoration and phytomass utilisation are being prepared in the form of printed manuals and social media videos, which will help promote an environmentally sustainable approach within local communities.
The acquired experience is planned to be disseminated both within and beyond the region, in particular through the activities of other eco-stations and the information and recreation network “Shliakh” (“The Path”). This will enhance awareness of steppe ecosystem conservation and the efficient use of natural resources.
We wish all organisations success in implementing everything they have planned, and we wish the communities growth in their energy independence and resilience. We will also share updates on the results of the implemented projects after their completion, so follow Ecoaction to stay informed.
The projects are implemented with grant funds received from the European Union through the Czech humanitarian organisation People in Need and the civil society organisation Center for Environmental Initiatives Ecoaction as part of the program “Supporting Winter Preparation and Renewable Energy at the Local Level in Ukraine”.
Translated from Ukrainian by Ecoaction volunteer Kseniia Khryplyvets