And the winner is ...
Gold in two categories goes to the Library Silistra in Bulgaria for an outstanding information and motivation campaign and for the highest energy savings in the 1st category (< 219 kWh/m2 per year) at the European Level. The Library succeeded to save 29% of energy with focussing on educational work for their employees and motivating staff to actively save energy.
Main factors for success were the previous experience in project work of a public organisation and also setting up and following strictly an action plan for the one-year competition. Furtheron several organizational and low cost investment measures were undertaken, as well as the purchasing of new energy efficient office equipment. A range of information and motivation measures for the library's employees have led to a more responsible use of energy. The enthusiasm and motivation of the personnel were kept alive during the whole competition. Special logo and slogan were used; the results were weekly reported and monthly discussed and analyzed. Discussions on actual topics regarding energy saving measures, use of renewable energy sources, etc. were also organized with the active involvement of the personnel. The other local events - competitions, workshops, etc. and collaboration with other institutions even contributed to the enthusiasm of the employees. But that was not all, the "energy work team" of the library addressed also the public with articles in local newspapers, radio and TV broadcasts about the competition and energy saving.
"The campaign of the Regional Library Silistra was successful, because from the beginning a team was set up and a plan was developed and strictly implemented. All employees, local media and friends supported the participation of the library" says Mrs. Lidiya Dimitrova, director of the Library.