A press conference was held to mark the completion of the energy renovation works on the Public Open University (POU) Čakovec building, presenting the results of this capital project. This represents the largest single investment in the institution’s history, providing the building—which is also a protected cultural heritage site—with a new appearance and modern technical capabilities.
The conference was addressed by the Mayor of Čakovec, Ljerka Cividini; the Director of POU Čakovec, Mario Zamuda; the representative of the Ministry of Culture and Media, Katarina Jakšić Brcko; the Director of the Međimurje Energy Agency (MENEA), Alen Višnjić; and Dr. Vesna Pascuttini Juraga from the Conservation Department.
Financing and Project Value
The energy renovation project was funded through grants under the Call “Energy renovation of buildings with cultural property status” (Reference number: NPOO.C6.1.R1-I3.01). The funds were secured from the Recovery and Resilience Facility of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), through the NextGenerationEU instrument.
The final total value of the project, including all project activities, amounts to EUR 1,071,506.89 (VAT included). Eligible costs amounted to EUR 832,212.37, while the value of contracted works reached EUR 862,760.92. The maximum grant amount covers 77.67% of the value, while the remaining 22.33%, or EUR 239,294.52, was covered by the budget of the founder—the City of Čakovec—and POU Čakovec’s own funds.
Technical Specifications and Scope of Works
Technical details of the renovation were presented by MENEA Director, Alen Višnjić. The building is now classified in Energy Class B regarding thermal energy for heating, while for primary energy, it falls into the high Class A+. This intervention has achieved an increase in the share of renewable energy sources by a significant 73.32%.
The works included:
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Thermal insulation of external walls and the attic,
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Replacement of joinery,
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Installation of a high-efficiency ventilation system and heat pumps,
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Installation of a 15 kW photovoltaic power plant,
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Replacement of existing lighting with an energy-efficient LED system.
In addition to energy efficiency, special attention was paid to accessibility and the environment. Inclined lifting platforms for persons with disabilities were installed, green areas were landscaped, and an electric vehicle charging station was set up. To complete the visual renovation, the refurbishment of the entrance passage (haustor), staircase, and fence remains to be done.
POU Čakovec as a Center for Education and International Cooperation
Director Mario Zamuda highlighted that since 2020, more than EUR 2.6 million has been invested in the building. He emphasized that the completed renovation represents a continuity of investment in an institution whose results far exceed its staffing capacity.
With only nine employees, supported by more than 70 external associates, the institution implements over 60 programs annually. Over the past decade, the University has established cooperation with more than 70 organizations from 30 countries, and the value of implemented and ongoing projects exceeds EUR 5.7 million. Currently, seven active projects are being implemented with a total value of nearly EUR 3 million, with the University’s share amounting to approximately EUR 500,000.
Mayor Ljerka Cividini emphasized the key role of POU Čakovec in the educational system of the city and the county, highlighting the importance of combining the building’s historical significance with its modern purpose.
Looking to the Future while Respecting Tradition
A particularly emotional moment was the speech by long-time former director Vera Rosić, who reflected on the decades of work and effort woven into the development of the University. “Behind everything lie sleepless nights and a great love for the institution. I am happy when I see how the work continues and grows,” said Rosić.
The completion of this demanding project is proof of how dedication, cooperation, and a clear vision can improve an institution that has been shaping the cultural and social life of Čakovec and Međimurje for decades. The energy-renovated building represents not only an infrastructural improvement but also strong support for future generations who will develop their potential here.
We thank everyone who contributed to the realization of this project—employees, associates, expert services, conservators, the Ministry of Culture and Media, the City of Čakovec, and all partners and contractors. Special thanks go to the generations who built the foundations of this institution, whose dedication remains permanently inscribed in every renovated detail of the building.
Funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU
The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them.
