A bilateral programme between Slovenia and Switzerland has been officially launched to support energy efficiency and renewable energy in Alpine regions. With a budget of CHF15.12mn ($19mn), the plan is part of the second Swiss Contribution for cohesion (2019–2029) and involves several Slovenian ministries with financial support from the Swiss Confederation.
An intergovernmental partnership running until 2029
The programme is coordinated by Slovenia’s Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy in cooperation with the Ministry of Cohesion and Regional Development. According to authorities, the initiative aims to turn local energy practices into measurable outcomes, including energy savings and community-driven renewable energy projects.
Key priorities include the digitalisation of local energy concepts under the DIGI-LEC initiative, the development of pilot agrivoltaic projects, the creation of renewable energy communities, and the promotion of shallow geothermal energy. Project leaders state that these efforts are intended to enhance the energy resilience of mountain regions.
Initial pilot projects and funding calls
At the launch event, the Agricultural Institute of Slovenia presented initial findings from a feasibility study on integrating solar panels into agricultural operations. The Ministry of Energy also announced an upcoming call for proposals to fund community energy systems based on solar and geothermal power in educational institutions.
Though still in its early phase, the programme aims to bring Swiss and Slovenian practices closer together in support of local energy autonomy, leveraging digital innovation and local natural resources.
