The project promotes the development of a sustainable and energy-efficient urban environment by creating Positive Energy Districts – areas where the amount of energy produced exceeds the energy consumed. It integrates smart energy and mobility technologies to improve the urban energy system and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Significance of the Project for Riga
Cities play a crucial role in addressing climate change, as they consume the majority of energy resources and generate a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions. The Riga Municipality is working on innovative ways to reduce energy consumption, promote the use of renewable energy, and engage residents in sustainable lifestyles.
Target of the Project
To support the development of an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly urban environment by designing and testing innovative energy solutions. The project contributes to the creation of a methodology for developing Positive Energy Districts and strengthens public awareness of energy efficiency and sustainable living.
Benefits for Residents
✔ Improved environmental quality by reducing emissions and supporting cleaner energy sources;
✔ Opportunity to participate in shaping their neighbourhood through involvement in sustainable solutions;
✔ New technological innovations that improve quality of everyday life;
✔ Long-term reduction in energy bills through more efficient energy use.
Project Activities
✔ Establishment of a local innovation ecosystem (PED Innovation Atelier) bringing together the municipality, scientists, businesses, and residents;
✔ Development of a Positive Energy District concept and an action plan for two pilot areas in Riga;
✔ International knowledge exchange with cities such as Amsterdam, Bilbao, and others across Europe;
✔ Development of Riga’s Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP) 2030;
✔ Public engagement and awareness-raising activities on energy efficiency and sustainable development.
Testbed Territory in Riga
Skanste neighbourhood.
Project Results
✔ A Positive Energy District model developed to promote more efficient energy use;
✔ New innovative solutions in energy and mobility to support climate neutrality;
✔ Improved framework for energy efficiency planning in Riga – updated SECAP 2030 and a vision for 2050;
✔ Increased public awareness and participation in energy efficiency issues.
Funding, Duration, and Partners
Funding source: Horizon 2020
Total project budget: EUR 22 million
Total budget for Riga:
EU funding for Riga Municipality: EUR 432 819 (100%)
Implementation Period: 01.11.2019 – 31.10.2025
Project Partners: City of Amsterdam (Netherlands), Riga City Municipality (Latvia), City of Bilbao (Spain), City of Budapest (Hungary), City of Copenhagen (Denmark), City of Bratislava (Slovakia), City of Kraków (Poland), City of Matosinhos (Portugal), along with universities and research institutes from 9 EU countries
Contact Information
Nika Kotoviča
Riga Energy Agency
Email: nika.kotovica@riga.lv
Project Links
ATELIER – Project page on Riga Energy Agency website
Smart City ATELIER official website
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