"Buildings account for 40% of energy consumption in the European Union. By renovating existing structures, we can achieve significant energy savings and reduce CO2 emissions. Through the România Eficientă program, we aim to enhance quality of life, educate future generations, and promote responsible energy consumption. The transformation of Zig-Zag kindergarten exemplifies the impact of România Eficientă, and we remain committed to its advancement, collaborating closely with partners and local authorities," stated Christina Verchere, CEO of OMV Petrom.
"With the completion of the renovation and modernization of Zig-Zag kindergarten in Ovidiu, the România Eficientă program has now completed its third comprehensive upgrade to nZEB standards for schools in Romania. The project's complexity was unparalleled, involving the construction of a connecting building to a former decommissioned heating substation, which has now been seamlessly integrated into the educational complex, providing valuable additional space for kindergarten activities," explained Radu Dudău, President of EPG and coordinator of the România Eficientă program.
Following the refurbishment, the 1950s Zig-Zag Kindergarten has been elevated from energy class E to the highest energy efficiency class, A. This upgrade is projected to reduce annual energy consumption by over 60% and slash carbon emissions by about sixfold. Key improvements include exterior insulation, energy-efficient joinery, and the implementation of a hybrid centralized climate control system with heat pumps. Additionally, a new photovoltaic panel system with an inverter and smart meter will partially fulfill the kindergarten's energy requirements.
The comprehensive works undertaken as part of the România Eficientă program encompassed various aspects:
Strengthening of the building's structural integrity
Construction of a connecting structure between the kindergarten and the former heating substation
Expansion of usable space with the addition of two new classrooms
Thermal insulation of the roof, exterior walls, and floors
Installation of energy-efficient exterior and interior joinery
Implementation of a hybrid centralized climate control system with heat pumps, gas boiler, and underfloor heating
Rehabilitation of the domestic hot water system
Replacement of the electrical installation and installation of LED lighting fixtures
Implementation of a modern ventilation system with heat recovery
Installation of a photovoltaic panel system with an inverter and smart meter
Installation of electrically adjustable aluminum sunshades on sunlit windows.
As a result of this extensive project, the Zig-Zag Kindergarten will provide a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for children and staff, while significantly reducing operating and maintenance costs.
The România Eficientă Program, administered by EPG and financed by OMV Petrom, will continue its mission with new projects aimed at energy renovation of educational institutions, educational initiatives, and information campaigns to promote energy efficiency in buildings. To date, approximately EUR 4 million has been allocated to the three modernization projects under the program. The first facility renovated through România Eficientă was the "Elie Radu" Energy Technological High School in Ploiești in 2022, followed by Liliești Secondary School in Băicoi (Prahova County) in 2023.
