Latvia: Encouraging Neighbor’s to Start the Renovation Conversation

The Vidzemes EnergoGids is a regional OSS launched by the Vidzeme Planning Region to support apartment owners, housing managers, and municipalities in renovation of multi-apartment buildings. Created within the RenoWave project, funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme, this OSS responds to the urgent need to modernize Latvia’s aging housing stock, particularly in Vidzeme, where many buildings require energy efficiency upgrades and structural improvements.

Why This Support Matters
The building renovation process in Latvia, especially for private owners, can be overwhelming. Legal and technical complexities, financial planning, and decision-making required for multi-owner settings often hinder action. Vidzemes EnergoGids was created to fill this gap, providing trusted, accessible, and personalised guidance for every step of the journey. It helps residents gain confidence to begin renovation and shows them how to do it effectively.

Bringing Support Directly to the People
Operating in 11 municipalities, Vidzemes EnergoGids offers free consultations, training and awareness-raising campaigns to empower local communities. A small but dedicated team, including a lead consultant, technical expert, PR specialist, and project manager, ensures expert support is available. Services include energy audits, identifying financing opportunities, and advice tailored to each building’s needs.

Real Action Through Pilot Projects
To raise awareness and inspire action, six apartment buildings in Vidzeme were selected as pilot cases. Each received a detailed energy audit, with findings used as a starting point for public discussions with residents. These meetings not only increased technical understanding but helped residents become more engaged in making decisions about their homes.

From Thermal Images to Real Change
A standout activity was the “Where Does the Heat Go?” campaign. Using thermal imaging to show where buildings were losing energy, the campaign sparked immediate interest and initiated dialogue between building residents and experts. Sharing success stories and peer learning continues to be an important part of the initiative’s approach.

Working Together Works
Collaboration with local municipalities, building administrators, and international partners is key to the OSS’ success. The team has worked closely with RenoWave partners to adapt best practices and create a supportive framework. The experience of other OSS models helped Vidzemes EnergoGids refine its communication tools and service structure. So far, more than 80 households have received individual consultations, with interest growing steadily.

The OSS is becoming a trusted contact point in Vidzeme for those looking to take their first or next step toward energy-efficient renovation.

More info: www.vidzeme.lv

Programme Manual Online

Choose