Warm Embrace: Better Heating, Insulation and Quality of Life in Czechia

Across Europe, NextGenerationEU is funding initiatives that support the clean energy transition and sustainable, inclusive growth. Through the EU-funded stimulus package, Czechia is devoting €360 million to boost energy efficiency in residential buildings. Having received funding for weatherproofing and insulation, residents of the SVJ Revoluční residential block in Frýdek-Místek are finally experiencing the benefits of truly modern living. 

Built in the mid-20^th century, the eight-storey building had fallen into disrepair in recent years, plagued by consistent leaks and poor insulation. Thanks to a bank loan, NextGenerationEU funding, and pooled resources through the homeowners' association, renovations were carried out in 2023. Local resident Anna Kamenišťáková and homeowners’ association chairman Zbyněk Pětník offered us some insights. 

Have the renovations improved residents’ quality of life?  

AK: Absolutely! Without the new insulation, we would have frozen eventually! In winter, we used to heat the flat constantly and this was very expensive. Leaks were also a concern, as seepage was damaging the building and flooding the basement areas. Since the renovation, living here is more pleasant in both winter and summer. 

ZP: The apartments are more comfortable now, of course, but cost savings have been the biggest benefit. Beforehand, poor insulation saw residents spending more and more on their heating bills, as costs had skyrocketed in recent years. The new insulation has made a big difference. We estimate that residents will save around 20% on their heating bills.  

“Since the renovation, living here is more pleasant in both winter and summer.”  

– Anna Kamenišťáková, Local Resident 

 Were there any challenges getting the project off the ground?  

AK: It was tricky at first, as the building is a joint-ownership property and we had to reach an agreement. The block has eight floors and many occupants. Some hesitated or objected at first, but once they saw the benefits of better insulation and realised the extent of the damage the leaks were causing, they came around. 

ZP: Some residents required convincing. As chairman of the homeowners’ association, I facilitate discussions and promote consensus. The renovations weatherproofed the building and made it more energy efficient, but this comes at a cost. Thankfully, EU funding meant we didn’t need such a big loan for the refurbishment. We held many meetings, listened to everyone’s concerns, and eventually reached an agreement.  

“Thankfully, EU funding meant we didn’t need such a big loan for the refurbishment.”  

– Zbyněk Pětník, Homeowners’ Association Chairman 

 Apart from boosting energy efficiency and eliminating leaks, have there been other benefits? 

AK: It’s quieter now. There’s a busy street below and a large supermarket across the road. We used to hear a lot of traffic, but the new windows are much better at cancelling this out. The building is also prettier. We moved into this flat in 1983, and the block had really deteriorated since then. Before the renovation, we joked that it looked like a sloppy bird’s nest. Now, it looks fresher and cleaner. 

ZP: I think Mrs. Kamenišťáková has really said it all. The apartments are now warmer, more comfortable, and quieter spaces to live in. The building looks better and performs better. We’re all satisfied with the outcome. 

Projects like the SVJ Revoluční's renovations are happening throughout Czechia. They aptly demonstrate some of NextGenerationEU's main priorities; boosting social and territorial inclusion, improving living conditions, and accelerating the green transition. Through smart, targeted investment in insulation and structural elements, housing blocks like these are becoming more energy efficient, less wasteful and better exemplars of a more sustainable future.