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On 29 April, a study visit titled “Spatial solutions for wind and solar parks in Latvia” was organised by the Kurzeme Planning Region in the Kaigu peat bog. Within this event, the Vidzeme Planning Region hosted a stakeholder meeting of the Interreg Europe project BiodIvErSe titled “Challenges and solutions in solar park development”. The discussions focused on how solar parks can be developed in Latvia while minimising impacts on nature and landscape. The event brought together municipal specialists from the Kurzeme Planning Region, energy managers, and representatives from the Nature Conservation Agency and JSC “Latvenergo”.

The event location – the territory of Laflora Ltd. in the Kaigu peat bog – provided a highly practical setting to explore these questions. It demonstrated how peat extraction areas can be planned with a long-term perspective, taking into account their future use after extraction. Laflora ensures a full peat extraction and processing cycle, from site preparation and extraction to the production of high value-added products, as well as further land development.

The company has set a goal to achieve scientifically based climate neutrality by 2050 by reducing and compensating emissions generated during peat extraction and processing. This approach includes sustainable peat extraction and processing, research into innovative peat products, and the implementation of restoration programmes in areas where extraction has been completed. In the long term, a broader vision has also been defined — to develop the area into a multifunctional sustainable territory where, alongside wind and solar energy, solutions such as renewable hydrogen production, greenhouse complexes, energy-intensive industries and recreational areas could be integrated.

At the same time, a major renewable energy project is being implemented in the Kaigu peat bog – the development of the “Laflora Energy” wind park in former peat extraction areas. The park includes 16 wind turbines with a total capacity of 108.8 MW, making it the largest wind park in Latvia. Increasing attention is also being given to the next stages of development and sustainable use of the area, supporting the company’s transition towards climate neutrality.

Within the BiodIvErSe project, particular attention was given to how solar energy solutions can be integrated into the environment without placing excessive pressure on ecosystems. In the presentation by representatives of the Vidzeme Planning Region, Edgars Augustiņš and Rolands Auziņš, it was emphasised that the environmental impact of solar panels is closely linked to their placement, planning and site management.

“The impact of solar panels on the environment is determined not by the technology itself, but by how it is placed and managed – the height of the panels, spacing between rows, water drainage solutions, and whether space is left for natural processes within the site,” it was highlighted during the presentation.

This approach is particularly evident in seemingly everyday decisions. For example, fencing around solar park territories is often introduced to ensure infrastructure security and reduce the risk of vandalism. However, fully enclosed areas can restrict animal movement and fragment habitats. Such examples underline the importance of considering fence design, wildlife permeability, access and land management between panel rows already at the planning stage.

These aspects show that the impact of solar panels on biodiversity is not determined by the renewable energy solution itself, but by the way it is integrated into the landscape and land use. This perspective allows renewable energy in peat extraction areas to be seen not only as electricity generation but as part of a broader energy system, where solar and wind energy, energy storage solutions and future technologies can coexist in synergy with spatial planning and environmental protection.

The event in the Kaigu peat bog confirmed that the development of renewable energy in Latvia is not only a technological issue, but also a long-term territorial choice, where planning, site selection and cooperation between developers, municipalities and environmental institutions play a decisive role.

The study visit “Spatial solutions for wind and solar parks in Latvia” was organised by the Kurzeme Planning Region within the project “Capacity building of specialists of municipalities and planning regions in climate-neutral economy and socio-economic aspects related to climate change mitigation”.

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Waste heat is generated as a by-product of various processes in industry, commercial and public buildings, including hospitals, sports and leisure complexes with swimming pools, as well as data centres. Such heat is often produced through continuous cooling, ventilation or water preparation processes, yet in practice it is rarely integrated into district heating systems.

One of the key factors determining the feasibility of using waste heat in district heating is the distance between the heat source and the boiler house or district heating network. The greater the distance, the higher the investment required for pipeline construction and the greater the heat losses, which in many cases makes the project economically unviable.

An additional challenge in the Latvian context is the limited number of large-scale heat sources, especially outside major cities. Unlike Northern European countries, where data centres are often identified as significant and stable sources of waste heat, the situation in Latvia is different, with fewer such facilities in operation. According to industry experts, one of the main reasons is that electricity prices in other countries are currently more competitive for the development of energy-intensive facilities.

In Salaspils, a solution is currently being developed that would allow waste heat generated by a data centre to be used in the district heating system. “We always look at energy as a resource that may be surplus for one party but highly valuable for another. A data centre must be cooled, while for us this waste heat is exactly what can be used in district heating. This cooperation makes it possible to combine cooling and heat production within one system, creating benefits for both sides,” emphasises Ilze Siliņa, Head of the Energy Efficiency Department at Salaspils Siltums Ltd.

“At the same time, our development vision is based on sustainability and the gradual electrification of heat supply. Renewable energy sources already dominate heat production, while the next step is a shift towards zero-emission technologies. A large share of Europe’s energy consumption is related to heat and transport, and we see strong potential for the centralised electrification of these sectors. In this context, thermal energy storage will also play an important role, ensuring system flexibility and balancing different energy sources in the future,” adds I. Siliņa.

Experience from other countries within the Green4HEAT project shows that the integration of waste heat into district heating networks is most effective in urban areas with well-developed networks and low-temperature systems. At the same time, public buildings can also serve as good examples of local waste heat utilisation.

At Vidzeme Hospital, an assessment has been carried out to identify which processes and equipment within the hospital infrastructure generate excess heat and what its utilisation potential is. “At Vidzeme Hospital, waste heat is generated in several daily processes – laboratory and radiology equipment, server rooms, cooling systems, as well as wastewater. Using, for example, heat pumps, this heat can be utilised for domestic hot water preparation or space heating, particularly in low-temperature heating systems,” explains Arita Krūmiņa, Energy Manager at Vidzeme Hospital Ltd.

The utilisation of waste heat in Latvia is also significantly influenced by the temperature of the heat carrier. In many cases, waste heat is available at low or medium temperatures, requiring additional technological solutions, such as heat pumps, to adapt it to district heating network requirements. This increases investment costs and extends payback periods, which, without targeted support instruments, can become a major barrier to project implementation.

Overall, waste heat is a significant but highly location-specific resource in Latvia. Its effective use requires not universal solutions, but detailed data analysis, an understanding of local conditions, and close cooperation between municipalities, district heating companies and major heat sources.

Green4HEAT regional stakeholder meetings bring together municipal representatives, district heating companies, energy managers, public building operators and other sector stakeholders involved in the planning and development of heat supply on a daily basis. The aim of these meetings is to build a shared understanding of sustainable heating solutions and to identify practically implementable directions at both regional and national levels. At the same time, the stakeholder meetings also serve as a platform for developing proposals for the Vidzeme Planning Region Development Programme for the next planning period, based on the needs identified during discussions and practical experience.

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The meeting focused on identifying policy drivers for introducing circular economy concepts in heating and cooling systems, with particular attention to the use of waste heat from industrial processes, data centres, and other urban energy sources.

Waste heat – thermal energy generated as a by-product of industrial or commercial processes – is often released into the environment without being utilised. However, when integrated into district heating systems, this energy can become a valuable local resource that reduces fossil fuel use, improves energy efficiency, and contributes to climate neutrality goals.

A methodology for analysing waste heat potential

To support the exchange between regions, Riga Technical University together with Vidzeme Planning Region developed a methodology that enables project partners to systematically analyse waste heat potential in their territories. The methodology provides a structured approach for collecting and comparing data, evaluating technical and economic conditions, and identifying policy factors that influence the integration of waste heat into district heating and cooling systems.

Before the workshop, Green4HEAT partners collected information about waste heat solutions in their regions using a common questionnaire and presentation template. During the meeting, these case studies were presented and discussed, allowing participants to compare experiences and identify solutions that could be transferred to other territories.

Examples from partner regions

One of the examples presented during the workshop came from Belgium, where excess heat from the Agfa-Gevaert industrial site is reused to supply nearby homes and businesses through a district heating network. The project, known as Warmte Verzilverd, captures heat generated during industrial production processes and distributes it to the surrounding urban area. Thanks to the factory’s location in a densely populated neighbourhood, the system already supplies sustainable heating to 158 residential connections and five businesses.

Another example highlighted the growing role of digital infrastructure in local energy systems. In Latvia, waste heat from the TET data centre in Salaspils is planned to be recovered and integrated into the local district heating network operated by district heating company “Salaspils Siltums”. The system could provide around 2 MW of heating capacity, supplying heat to up to 400 private houses or approximately 1,000 apartments, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels in the local heating system.

Partners from other Green4HEAT regions also shared their experiences. In Poland, the EcoGenerator waste-to-energy plant in Szczecin has implemented a waste heat recovery installation that captures heat from exhaust gases and feeds it into the municipal district heating network.

In Slovenia, waste heat from the steel production facility SIJ Metal Ravne has been integrated into the district heating system of Ravne na Koroškem, covering a significant share of the city’s heat demand and demonstrating the benefits of cooperation between industry and local energy providers.

Additional examples from Greece and Hungary illustrated both the opportunities and challenges of integrating waste heat into energy systems, including biogas-based heat utilisation projects and industrial waste heat reuse within manufacturing processes.

Meanwhile, Lithuania emphasised the importance of developing clear policy frameworks, waste heat mapping tools, and national registries of potential heat sources to support wider deployment of such solutions.

Supporting future policy development

The discussions highlighted common challenges across regions, including regulatory barriers, investment risks, and the need for stronger cooperation between municipalities, industry, and district heating operators.

The insights gathered during the workshop will contribute to the development of policy guidelines, which will be prepared by Riga Technical University and Vidzeme Planning Region based on the methodology and the information collected from partner regions.

These guidelines will support regional and local authorities in creating favourable conditions for waste heat integration and help accelerate the transition towards more efficient, circular and climate-friendly heating and cooling systems across Europe.

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The stakeholder discussion brought together representatives of municipalities, experts and local actors to explore how solar energy solutions can be implemented responsibly and integrated into the landscape without harming natural habitats.

The meeting also formed part of the Vidzeme Innovation Week seminar “Next Level Energy: Energy Communities, Data and Solar Solutions,” which addressed broader topics related to renewable energy development and community involvement in the energy transition.

Solar energy development in Latvia: growth with responsibility

Solar energy is currently the fastest-growing renewable energy source in Latvia, and it is increasingly linked to the development of energy communities.

During the seminar, Gatis Macans, Executive Director of the Latvian Renewable Energy Alliance, presented an overview of the current situation in the sector. He emphasised that while solar energy development in Latvia is progressing rapidly, the overall pace of renewable energy deployment in the Baltic States remains uneven.

At the same time, Latvia has significant potential to strengthen its energy independence by combining different renewable energy sources with energy storage solutions. A balanced mix of solar and wind energy, supported by storage technologies, could help ensure a stable and resilient energy system.

Existing microgeneration systems, the widespread use of smart meters and technological progress — including artificial intelligence solutions — are also creating favourable conditions for the development of energy communities, where residents and organisations jointly produce and manage renewable energy.

Local energy community initiative in Kalniena

Kalniena was chosen as the meeting location because the area has recently become an example of growing local interest in renewable energy solutions.

A local energy community initiative is emerging in the area, where residents are exploring opportunities to jointly produce and manage renewable energy. This local engagement has also increased interest in solar energy projects and their potential environmental impacts.

The stakeholder meeting therefore provided a timely opportunity to discuss how solar technologies can be implemented in ways that are both environmentally responsible and beneficial for local communities.

BiodIvErSe solutions: combining solar energy and biodiversity

During the meeting, experts from the Vidzeme Planning Region – Rolands Auzins and Edgars Augustins – presented examples of innovative solar solutions that allow renewable energy production to coexist with biodiversity protection.

Participants emphasised that renewable energy projects are not automatically beneficial for nature. Without proper planning, solar parks may lead to habitat loss, ecosystem fragmentation and reduced feeding or nesting areas for wildlife. However, with thoughtful planning and management, solar energy projects can also contribute to ecosystem restoration and multifunctional land use.

Among the solutions presented were vertical solar panels in agricultural landscapes, which allow grazing or crop cultivation between panel rows, as well as adjustable solar installations in horticulture that help regulate shading and reduce water evaporation.

Other approaches include environmentally friendly floating solar systems in water bodies and the integration of solar energy production into degraded areas such as peatlands undergoing ecosystem restoration. These examples demonstrate that solar energy infrastructure can be designed not only to produce electricity but also to support biodiversity when integrated into broader landscape planning.

“Renewable energy development and biodiversity protection should not be seen as opposing goals. With thoughtful planning and appropriate solutions, it is possible to produce clean energy while also supporting natural ecosystems,” said Rolands Auzins, expert at the Vidzeme Planning Region.

Dialogue and planning are key

Participants concluded that the environmental impact of solar energy projects depends largely on-site selection, project design and management practices.

Achieving positive outcomes therefore requires careful spatial planning, research and continuous dialogue between policymakers, experts, local communities and energy developers.

The stakeholder meeting organised within the BiodIvErSe project highlighted the importance of such discussions in identifying solutions that support both renewable energy development and biodiversity protection.

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The event opened with insights from Anca Sinea, an energy policy researcher at the Department of Political Science of Babes-Bolyai University, Romania. She reminded participants that building renovation today is not only a technical obligation but also closely linked to financial stability and well-being. As she explained, “Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is one of the cornerstones in the EU climate and energy policies. It does something fundamental — it brings conversations of buildings out of the technical box and places it in the heart of social policies as a tool for economic security and individual well-being.”

She also highlighted that OSS should not be seen simply as information points: “OSS represents much more than administrative platforms. They should be integrators in multiple dimensions of renovation – simplify complexity, personalise the journey, and connect actors in specific local environments.” According to A. Sinea, OSS help transform policy ambition into meaningful benefits for households because renovation decisions are made locally, through trust, familiarity and cooperation.

What RenoWave has achieved

The keynote was followed by a presentation by Marit Ragnarsson, County Board of Dalarna (Sweden) and lead partner of RenoWave. She summarised what the consortium has achieved over the project duration, underscoring that multi-apartment buildings were at the core of every pilot. These buildings, she emphasised, combine shared ownership, differing investment capacities, and limited access to technical expertise—factors that make targeted advisory support particularly necessary.

M. Ragnarsson walked participants through the development journey of RenoWave, from early research to regional pilots implemented. Despite differences in context and local governance, one finding was universal: residents need structured and continuous support to successfully navigate renovation. She noted: “Our work confirmed that multi-apartment buildings require a dedicated support system — not only for technical planning, but for building confidence among residents. The solutions tested within RenoWave helped regions understand how advisory structures can actually guide people through decision-making, rather than simply informing them.”

A recurring thought throughout the day was the value of doing this work together, across regions and countries. RenoWave has shown that the challenges are similar, even if the pace and context differ. The project made it possible to look at what others are already doing — in some cases almost like a glimpse into the future. As partners noted, this has only been possible because of transnational cooperation enabled by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region programme. There is still much to learn from each other, and partners expressed strong motivation to continue working together also beyond the project. All information and materials available: https://interreg-baltic.eu/project/renowave/

Four pilots – different methods, same needs

The event also showcased four OSS models tested through RenoWave:

• Lithuania — implementation model in Vilnius https://interreg-baltic.eu/project-pilots/lithuania-oss-in-vilnius-is-revitalising-multi-family-buildings-through-innovative-renovation-solutions-2/
• Latvia — advisory-based OSS in region supporting apartment meetings https://interreg-baltic.eu/project-pilots/latvia-encouraging-neighbors-to-start-the-renovation-conversation-2/
• Estonia — regional approach enabling renovation decisions https://interreg-baltic.eu/project-pilots/estonia-a-regional-model-making-renovation-possible-2/
• Poland — digital-cluster model supporting decision-making https://interreg-baltic.eu/project-pilots/poland-how-oss-is-making-renovation-smarter-in-poland-2/

Though approaches differed, presenters agreed that the decisive factor is accessibility of support where residents are, not expecting residents to initiate the process alone.

Participants’ messages to policymakers

During the event, participants shared thoughts and questions through a live poll, and their responses pointed in the same direction. Many emphasised that advisory services need to continue beyond single projects, otherwise interest and willingness to renovate can fade before decisions are actually made.

There was a clear expectation that support systems should be backed at national level and remain accessible over time—not only when external funding is available. These reflections reminded that renovation decisions take time, involve many conversations and often require reassurance. When guidance is stable and present throughout the process, communities are more likely to stay on track and move from intention to real renovation steps.

Looking ahead

A short study visit after the event allowed partners to observe renovation happening step-by-step in a multi-apartment building in Bremerhaven. It was a reminder that renovation is not implemented overnight. It grows from small improvements, shared planning and clear information about what will follow.

Throughout the day, a consistent understanding emerged: OSS are not simply communication tools. They are structures that help people feel confident to commit to renovation. They bring knowledge closer, create trust and translate technical steps into something understandable.

In closing, Marita reminded that the journey made within RenoWave was only possible because regions worked together, learned from each other and compared real situations. She emphasised that it was the Interreg Baltic Sea Region programme that made this possible—providing space not just for piloting, but for genuine exchange. Partners expressed hope that this cooperation will continue, as there is still much to learn from how others approach renovation at different scales and levels of maturity.

The materials, stories and approaches created through RenoWave will continue to be available even after the end of the project. Although they were developed with multi-apartment buildings in mind, many insights are equally applicable to other building types and public facilities where renovation decisions involve multiple stakeholders. They can inspire regions, municipalities and organisations to shape advisory systems that genuinely support people in improving their buildings—sustainably, gradually and with shared understanding.

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Date: 4th December 2025
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (CET)
Registration link here!

The link for online participation will be sent to you shortly before the event.

Event Highlights

• Hear a keynote presentation from an EU-Commission OSS expert on the future of energy efficiency support.
• Gain insights and best practice examples from the RenoWave project’s success stories.
• Participate in an open panel discussion and bring your questions!

Who should attend?
This event is essential for:

• EPBD implementers and relevant Interreg officials.
• Organisations involved in setting up or running One-Stop-Shop (OSS) services.
• Representatives of energy projects and organisations supporting building energy efficiency.
• All other interested parties working in the field of sustainable building renovation.

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