In August 2025, two new initiatives were launched under the Investing in SDGs programme, expanding the portfolio to six active projects across Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
The Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic and UNDP have announced the launch of two new projects aimed at accelerating the clean energy transition and enhancing energy efficiency across the region. These new initiatives expand the Investing in SDGs programme, which is implemented under the Public and Private Finance for Development project. With their addition, the programme now supports six active initiatives focused on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative partnerships and demand-driven solutions.
Renewable Energy in Moldova
The Renewable Energy in Moldova project aims to accelerate the country’s clean energy transition while supporting local development. Working with three clusters of merged local public authorities, the project is helping design investment-ready solar energy initiatives and strengthening their capacity to collaborate with private sector partners. By advancing renewable energy and climate goals, the project contributes to Moldova’s vision of a more sustainable, resilient, and energy-secure future.
Energy Audits in Uzbekistan
In Uzbekistan, the Energy Audits – Unlocking the Potential of Energy Efficiency in the Public Sector project addresses the challenge of energy consumption in public buildings.
The initiative promotes a standardized and transparent approach to achieving energy savings in both reconstruction and new construction. A key component is the development of a national certification system for energy auditors, supported by extensive capacity building for current and future experts. At least two pilot energy audits in public buildings will serve as practical demonstrations, while partnerships between public institutions, the banking sector, and private companies are expected to catalyze long-term investment. The project aligns with Uzbekistan’s National Strategy for Transition to Green Economy for 2019-2030 and is part of the Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan and UNDP.
A Growing Portfolio of Regional Impact
Earlier in 2025, four other projects under the programme were launched in the Western Balkans, focusing on:
- Cybersecurity in Water Services Management in North Macedonia
- Reducing Waste and Rethinking Waste Management in Montenegro
- Unlocking Geothermal Energy Potential in Serbia
- Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina
For all six initiatives, Slovakia contributes not only financial support but also its expertise and experience to ensure their successful implementation.