On June 23, a country-specific training on “Financing, implementation and monitoring of municipal Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans: focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy” was held in Yerevan for the Covenant of Mayors East Signatory community representatives.

The seminar was attended by about 20 representatives of Spitak, Vanadzor, Tashir, Parakar, Martuni, Sevan, Gavar, Ijevan, Yerevan, Alaverdi, Vardenis, Jermuk, Ashtarak, Vayk, Masis, Sisian.

During the first day of the seminar the issues were discussed such as financing of municipal energy efficiency and renewable energy, financing sustainable energy projects in municipalities, implementation of renewable energy project in Armenian municipalities. Best local practice in implementation of mitigation activities and project cycle was represented.

During the second day of the seminar site visits to a local PV modules manufacturer, insulated municipal building, solar water heating facility,   individual PV system as well as large-scale commercial PV plant were organized.

Andrea Baggioli, International Aid / Cooperation Officer of EUD in Armenia in his welcoming speech stated that the aim of organization of such seminars is to raise people's awareness on energy efficiency, energy saving. He stressed EU is very supportive of these processes in Armenia.

Emin Yeritsyan, the head of Project partner organization, Union of Communities of Armenia, emphasized the importance of Covenant of Mayors East project in the field of energy efficiency: “This is an example for us, we are able to set goals with a broad vision and to achieve success. If we look back, we will see that we have achieved changes, which are not only in the private sector, in public life, but also in the lives of individuals. The Union of Communities of Armenia is committed to ensuring awareness in terms of the Covenant of Mayors, as is the Government of the Republic of Armenia. It is gratifying that the commitment is united”.

Ashot Giloyan, Head of Local Self-Governance Department of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures of RA, National Coordinator stated that we have active communities. He brought the example of Spitak community. "Traditions should be continued in Spitak, where great success has been mades. Thanks to the head of the community. Artik, Aparan, Gavar and other communities are also active. Capacity building of communities is important because this problem really exists”.