The Εξοικονομώ programme is the largest state subsidy scheme for residential energy upgrades in Greece. If you are planning a renovation, combining energy upgrades with Εξοικονομώ subsidies can significantly reduce the total cost.
What does Εξοικονομώ cover?
The Εξοικονομώ programme covers: insulation (external or internal), replacing windows/doors with energy-efficient ones, heat pump installation, solar water heater, high-efficiency inverter air conditioning, photovoltaics for self-consumption, smart thermostat and heating automation system.
Who can apply for Εξοικονομώ?
Individual property owners can apply if they meet the income criteria. The property must be used as primary or secondary residence and must have an Energy Performance Certificate (ΠΕΑ) showing energy class D or lower before the works.
Step-by-step application process
1) Get an Energy Performance Certificate (ΠΕΑ) before works from an energy inspector (~€150–€250). 2) Submit application on exoikonomo.gov.gr via Taxisnet. 3) Application evaluation and approval. 4) Execute works using approved contractors. 5) Get a new ΠΕΑ after works. 6) Submit documentation and receive subsidy payment.
Energy upgrade without Εξοικονομώ: is it worth it?
Even without a subsidy, some energy upgrades pay back quickly in Athens: heat pump (3–7 years payback), solar water heater (2–4 years), LED lighting (1–3 years), roof insulation (4–8 years). External wall insulation has higher cost and 8–15 year payback but significantly improves thermal comfort.
Combining renovation and energy upgrade: the optimal approach
If you are planning a renovation, it is almost always more cost-effective to integrate the energy upgrade into the same project. Labour for insulation, window replacement and heat pump installation is lower when the property is already under renovation. Synchronising the Εξοικονομώ timeline with the renovation schedule is critical — start the application process at least 3 months in advance.
Frequently asked questions
What energy class must my home be to qualify for Εξοικονομώ?
Your property must currently have an Energy Performance Certificate (ΠΕΑ) showing energy class D or lower (D, E, Z, H). After the upgrades, it must improve by at least one full energy class. Properties in class C or higher do not qualify.
Can I choose my own contractor for Εξοικονομώ works?
Yes, but the contractor must be registered in the Εξοικονομώ approved contractors registry. Not all contractors are registered. Ask your contractor to confirm their registration status before signing any agreement.
How long does the Εξοικονομώ subsidy take to arrive?
After submitting all post-work documentation, payment typically takes 2–4 months. The total process from application to receipt of subsidy can take 12–18 months. Plan your cash flow accordingly — you pay for works upfront and receive the subsidy later.
What is the most cost-effective energy upgrade in Athens?
In Athens's climate, a heat pump replacing an old gas or oil boiler offers the best payback — typically 3–6 years. A solar water heater is the second-best return (2–4 years). Window replacement has good comfort benefits but longer payback (6–12 years) without subsidy.
Can I apply for Εξοικονομώ if my property has an unresolved arbitration issue?
Properties with unauthorised construction (αυθαίρετα) that have been legalised under Law 4495/2017 can apply. Properties with outstanding, unresolved unauthorised construction issues typically cannot. Consult a TCG-registered engineer to check your property's status.
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