Kosovo establishes its first group of independent experts for HVAC inspections in buildings

Kosovo has marked an important milestone in the implementation of energy performance reforms in the building sector, with the successful completion of the first qualifying training programme for independent experts responsible for inspecting heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings. Organised with the support of the Energy transition and climate mitigation in Kosovo project for the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning, the training contributes directly to the implementation of the Law on Energy Performance of Buildings, which introduces new requirements for the inspection of HVAC systems. These inspections are part of Kosovo’s wider efforts to improve energy efficiency in buildings, reduce energy consumption and support climate mitigation objectives.

A total of 51 professionals successfully completed the training and examination process and are now expected to be certified as independent experts for HVAC inspections. In parallel, 21 experienced professionals completed a dedicated Training of Trainers component, creating the first group of local trainers who will support the continuation of similar programmes in the future.

Implemented with the support of the Energy transition and climate mitigation project, the activity provided targeted support to the Ministry in building the technical and institutional capacities needed to operationalise HVAC inspections in Kosovo.

The training brought together professionals from relevant technical fields and combined classroom-based lectures, interactive discussions, practical field training and an examination. Participants were introduced to the legal and regulatory framework, principles of building energy performance, HVAC inspection methodology, reporting requirements and the use of the digital platform for managing inspection-related data.

Practical training on selected HVAC systems enabled participants to apply their knowledge in real building conditions and better understand the technical aspects of future inspection work. Once certified and licensed in line with the applicable procedures, the newly trained experts will be eligible to perform HVAC inspections in buildings, contributing to improved system performance, better energy management and increased awareness among building owners and users.

The activity builds on previous technical assistance provided under the project. The Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar, together with Professor Qerkin BERISHA and under the supervision of the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning, supported the development of secondary legislation required for HVAC inspections under the Law on Energy Performance of Buildings, aligned with the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.

The Training of Trainers component represents an important achievement of this activity. By preparing 21 professionals to serve as future trainers, the programme helps ensure that Kosovo can continue developing its own pool of qualified independent experts in response to market and regulatory needs.

This local capacity will be essential for the long-term sustainability of the HVAC inspection system, enabling future training programmes to be delivered locally and supporting the gradual development of professional services linked to energy efficiency in buildings.

The successful completion of the first HVAC inspection training programme lays the foundation for a functional inspection system, strengthens local expertise and supports Kosovo’s transition towards more energy-efficient, better-performing and more sustainable buildings.

The Energy transition and climate mitigation in Kosovo project is funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency. It is a comprehensive effort to address Kosovo’s energy challenges. Its primary goal is to facilitate the adoption of energy efficiency practices and renewable energy sources, thereby supporting Kosovo’s transition to clean energy. By optimising energy consumption and reducing carbon emissions, the project addresses critical challenges such as inefficient energy use and the low share of renewables in electricity generation. This transition is essential for both environmental and economic reasons, setting the stage for a more sustainable and resilient energy sector.