Energy Agency of the Zlín Region

The Energy Agency of the Zlín Region (EAZK ) is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2006 and fully owned by the Zlín Region. EAZK operates as an advisor for particular departments of the Zlín Region, especially those working on regional development, such as the Department of the Strategic Development of the Zlín Region, the Department of Investments, the Department of Spatial Planning, and more. EAZK initiates or at least comments on all suggestions that concern the energy policy of the region and that are further negotiated by the Council of the Zlín Region. 

EAZK also supports the region and its municipalities to gain financial sources from existing funds to develop their own Sustainable Energy Action Plans (SEAPs), development plans and energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy sources (RES) projects. The agency also operates as an independent advisor for municipalities of the Zlín Region in their process of developing their own SEAPs.  

Another role of EAZK is acting as a negotiator between politicians and municipalities on one side and consultancy companies, central heating systems operators and energy suppliers on the other side. Expected results include new/improved municipal Energy plans for an increase in energy efficiency, and renewables utilisation, balanced and reliable energy supply. 

EAZK participates in suggesting and implementing strategic documents and policies of the Zlín Region in the fields of energy, environment, and innovation. Representatives of the agency are involved in the process of consultation and suggesting national legislative documents and policies as members of various committees and working groups, both at the regional and national levels. 

Thanks to its nature, EAZK also has access to all reliable regional databases and documents on the potential of the region. 

Activities 

• Energy consultancy leading to an increase in energy efficiency and self-sufficiency; 

• Dissemination and good practice promotion; 

• Initiation and preparation of energy-focused projects; 

• Supporting the establishment of energy management in municipalities and regional authorities; 

• International cooperation on the preparation and promotion of energy consultancy and projects; 

• Organisation of training courses, seminars, and other educational meetings, including lecturers’ activities; 

• Organisation of exhibitions, fair trades, shows, campaigns, and more. 

Projects 

Since the beginning of its existence in 2006, EAZK have been joining many European projects which have become an important part of the development towards being a modern, successful and independent energy agency in the field of energy efficiency and RES utilisation. These projects include, but are not limited to:   

• SRCPlus – Supporting and accelerating the development of local supply chains of Short Rotation Woody Crops (SRC) 

• BOOSTEE-CE – Enhancing energy efficiency in public buildings in Central Europe by offering best practices, databases of contractors and appliances, financial expertise and a 3D Energy Management System – all on one platform.   

• LC DISTRICTS – Improving regional development policies and programmes in building renovations and the construction of energy efficient buildings to facilitate the transition to low-carbon districts and municipalities