At the end of January 2026, a three-day training for representatives of local authorities was held, focusing on the development and implementation of policies for building stock renovation as a key instrument for achieving climate neutrality. The event brought together mayors and municipal councillors from 11 Bulgarian municipalities.

The training was organised by EcoEnergy and is part of the official calendar of the Bulgarian School of Politics “Dimitar Panitsa”. It focused on the political and strategic dimensions of building renovation—beyond purely technical solutions—and its role in sustainable development, energy security and local competitiveness.

The programme covered topics such as national and European policy frameworks for energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, the role of local authorities in the climate transition, decision-making mechanisms at municipal level, and available financial instruments for the implementation of municipal policies and investments. Particular emphasis was placed on the EU Mission for 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities and on the NetZeroCities initiative as a platform supporting cities through expert assistance, peer learning and capacity building.

The training was delivered within the framework of the City Expert Support Facility (CESF) of the NetZeroCities initiative. The National Trust EcoFund (NTEF) is the contractor responsible for delivering CESF expert support in Bulgaria, contributing to the development of a community of practice among Bulgarian cities, strengthening multi-level cooperation, and supporting the active involvement of local authorities in the implementation of the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral Cities.