Four Projects in the Ciuc Area Move Closer to European Funding

European Funding for Local Needs

Under the LEADER programme, which is based on European Union rural development funds, the committee evaluated projects submitted under the second call for proposals within the intervention dedicated to environmental protection and climate action measures. The committee reviewed the proposals presented by the Csík LEADER technical team. All four submitted projects are included in the interim selection report, which represents an important stage in the funding procedure.

The total value of the four investments is €233,649. This amount should be distinguished from the €193,099 in funding requested through the projects. The subsequent stages of the procedure will also be important for the implementation of these investments.

Four Projects for Local Communities

• Ciucsângeorgiu (Csíkszentgyörgy): The project, with a funding request of €73,099, aims to provide renewable heating for public buildings. The proposed investment involves a biomass heating plant using wood chips.
• Mădăraș (Csíkmadaras): The project, with a funding request of €40,000, aims to supply the multifunctional building with renewable energy.
• Sântimbru (Csíkszentimre): The project, for which €40,000 in funding has been requested, involves the purchase and installation of photovoltaic panels.
• Băile Tușnad (Tusnádfürdő): The project, with a funding request of €40,000, focuses on installing bear-resistant waste collection systems. The aim is to reduce conflicts between humans and bears.

Teamwork and Clear Responsibilities

These projects are the result of the preparatory work carried out by the applicant local authorities and the evaluation conducted by the Csík LEADER technical team. The selection committee is responsible for making decisions within the project selection process. Csaba Borboly participated in this work as a representative of the association, not as an individual responsible for allocating funding.

Expanding the use of renewable energy also contributes to improving the operation of public buildings. The project in Băile Tușnad demonstrates that preventing conflicts with bears requires concrete measures, including in waste management. The common interest of local communities is to ensure that well-prepared projects become investments implemented in full compliance with the applicable legal requirements.

From Selection to Implementation

Following the publication of the interim report, the procedure will continue through its subsequent stages. According to the Applicant’s Guide, after the appeals period and the finalisation of the selection process, the projects may proceed to the verification stage at the Agency for Financing Rural Investments (AFIR). Implementation also requires compliance with the conditions established by the applicable procedures.

European opportunities become tangible results at the local level when investments are completed and begin serving the needs of communities. Therefore, the focus in the coming stages must remain on thorough preparation and responsible implementation.

The experiences and needs of local residents are also important for future projects: What similar investment do you consider most necessary in the communities of the Ciuc area?