Efficient Buildings - Resilient Ukraine

Energy-efficient and climate-resilient buildings are essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening energy security and creating sustainable cities. In Ukraine, these priorities have become even more urgent as Russia's full-scale invasion continues to damage infrastructure and disrupt energy supplies. Buildings account for 42% of Ukraine's final energy consumption, yet much of the building stock remains highly inefficient. With an estimated 14% of buildings damaged or destroyed, reconstruction presents both an enormous challenge and an opportunity to reduce energy demand and emissions. How can Ukraine establish the policy, institutional and financial frameworks needed to accelerate large-scale, climate-friendly reconstruction?

This COP31 side event brings together policymakers, international financial institutions and technical experts to explore practical solutions for energy-efficient building renovation and reconstruction. The discussion will address regulatory reforms aligned with Ukraine's EU accession process, standardised renovation approaches, demonstration projects and financing mechanisms that can make sustainable investments more accessible and scalable.

The event will also present findings from "Efficient Buildings, Resilient Ukraine: A Policy Study", developed under the FELICITY II programme. Drawing on international experience and Ukraine's response to wartime energy challenges, speakers will explore how reconstruction can strengthen energy resilience and what lessons can be transferred to other countries facing similar challenges. The discussion aims to connect policy recommendations, practical solutions and investment opportunities to support the large-scale transformation of Ukraine's building stock.