Faced with the economic and climate challenges of the next decade, the Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (OFA) proposes a series of concrete measures aimed at supporting Romanian SMEs in adopting a model of „competitive sustainability.”
These measures, focused on increasing energy efficiency and transitioning to more environmentally responsible business practices, present a unique opportunity for SMEs to reduce costs, stimulate innovation, and better adapt to the demands of an ever-changing market.
The Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (OFA) has submitted a set of concrete proposals to the Ministry of Energy, aiming to improve Romania’s Energy Strategy for 2025-2035 with a vision for 2050.
These proposals, centered on increasing energy efficiency in the SME sector, have the potential to reduce operational costs, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to achieving Romania’s sustainability objectives.
OFA’s Proposals:
1. ”EcoVoucher” Program
One of OFA’s key proposals is the „EcoVoucher” Program, which provides vouchers for energy audits and the implementation of energy efficiency measures. This program is designed to offer SMEs direct financial support tailored to their specific needs, enabling them to quickly adopt energy-efficient solutions and improve their market competitiveness.
2. „GarantEnergy” Guarantee Fund
Another major initiative proposed by OFA is the „GarantEnergy” Guarantee Fund. This fund would offer guarantees for loans taken by SMEs to finance energy efficiency projects, reducing financial risks and facilitating access to financing. The fund would encourage banks to provide more favorable credit conditions, increasing investments in green technologies.
3. „QuickStart Green” Grant Program
OFA also proposes the „QuickStart Green” grant program, aimed at SMEs that wish to quickly implement simple but effective measures, such as improving building insulation or replacing traditional lighting with LED solutions. These immediate actions have a significant impact on energy consumption and operational cost reduction.
4. „InovaEco” Program
The „InovaEco” Program is designed to stimulate the adoption of innovative technologies among SMEs. By providing grants for projects with high potential for energy savings and CO2 emission reductions, this program supports SMEs in investing in cutting-edge energy solutions and contributes to Romania’s transition to a green economy.
5. „EcoPartnership” Program
The „EcoPartnership” Program is based on partnerships with energy service companies (ESCOs) and offers SMEs the possibility to implement energy efficiency measures without initial investments. The costs are covered from the energy savings generated, ensuring a successful model for adopting efficient technologies without financial strain on businesses.
6. „ProMESI” Program
The „ProMESI” Program aims to replace outdated and inefficient production equipment with modern, sustainable solutions. This program will combine grants and advantageous loans to facilitate SMEs’ transition to advanced production technologies, contributing to reduced energy consumption and improved environmental performance.
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These initiatives are designed to help SMEs enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, and boost competitiveness in the long run. In an ever-changing global economic context, energy efficiency is no longer just an option but a necessity for the survival and prosperity of small and medium-sized businesses.
Moreover, the concept of „competitive sustainability” is becoming a central theme for Romanian SMEs over the next decade.
OFA emphasizes that transitioning to sustainable practices not only aligns businesses with European and international environmental regulations but also allows them to maintain and expand their market position by reducing costs, attracting environmentally-conscious customers, and creating new business opportunities. Thus, sustainability is not just an ethical commitment but a business strategy that can ensure the resilience and long-term economic success of SMEs.
OFA expresses its willingness to collaborate closely with national and European public authorities, as well as with other stakeholders, to turn these proposals into concrete public policies that provide Romanian SMEs with the necessary support to become more sustainable and competitive.
We believe that by implementing these programs, a solid development framework will be created for Romanian SMEs, aligning with national and European environmental and sustainability objectives.
Statements from OFA leadership:
Mirabela Miron, President of OFA:
”A structured dialogue between the public system and relevant stakeholders, through their experts, is essential for developing effective and sustainable policies, including in the energy sector.
Only through close collaboration can we ensure a national Energy Strategy that responds to economic realities and the needs of SMEs.”
Ana-Maria Icătoiu, First Vice President of OFA:
”The proposals submitted by OFA to the Ministry of Energy are crucial in supporting the competitive sustainability of Romanian SMEs.
They provide concrete solutions for optimizing energy consumption and aligning small and medium-sized enterprises with the requirements of a green economy, thus ensuring a long-term competitive advantage at both national and European levels.”