On Monday, July 15, 2024, the implementation of the project “Sport Facilities Green Energy” – SINERGY commenced. The project is carried out within the framework of the Interreg VI-A IPA Cross-border Cooperation Programme Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027. The SINERGY project will last for 24 months, concluding on July 14, 2026.

The City of Tuzla is the lead partner on the project, with project partners including the Public Institution for the Management of Sports Facilities of the City of Vukovar – “Sports Facilities Vukovar” from Croatia, the Municipality of Herceg Novi from Montenegro, and the non-governmental organization Center for Ecology and Energy from Tuzla.

We are proud to have collaboratively developed the SINERGY project, which promotes energy efficiency and sustainability while enhancing cross-border cooperation between Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. This project will significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Tuzla, Vukovar, and Herceg Novi, reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Mejdan Sports Center in Tuzla, as well as the sports centers in Vukovar and Herceg Novi. Through user education and the implementation of innovative energy solutions, the SINERGY project lays the groundwork for a greener and more sustainable future in Tuzla and the region.

The main objective of the project is to directly contribute to strengthening social, economic, and territorial development in the cross-border areas of Tuzla, Vukovar, and Herceg Novi by improving energy efficiency in public sector infrastructure, promoting it, and educating users.

Key Activities:

In Vukovar: Reconstruction and enhancement of the water cooler and heat pump optimization system, as well as modernization of lighting at the Vukovar Pool, managed by the Public Institution “Sports Facilities Vukovar.” The goal of the reconstruction is to optimize the operation of water cooling devices so that they can also function as traditional heat pumps in heating mode throughout the year.

In Herceg Novi: Replacement of the existing lighting with modern LED lighting in the Igalo Sports Center, in accordance with international standards. This includes dismantling the current lighting and installations, installing new LED lights, and implementing a DMX system for intelligent lighting control.

In Tuzla: Reconstruction of the Mejdan Sports Center, including replacing the glass facade to improve Mejdan’s energy efficiency. Additionally, a modern energy monitoring system will be procured, staff at Mejdan will be trained in energy efficiency, and measures will be implemented to promote and save energy while enhancing energy efficiency.

The Center for Ecology and Energy (CEE) will oversee analytical work, educational activities, and coordinate communication and promotion of the main project achievements among all four partners through a media campaign targeting relevant stakeholders. The CEE will organize a study visit to best practices in energy efficiency in Austria and Slovenia and coordinate communication and promotional activities between all four partners.

The SINERGY project is financed by the European Union through the Interreg VI-A IPA Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027 Programme. The total project value is €1,856,980.94, of which the European Union co-finances €1,578,433.78 (85%) in non-repayable funds.