VÚB and SIH have program for energy efficiency

VÚB Bank, part of the Intesa Sanpaolo banking group, and Slovak Investment Holding (SIH) have signed a cooperation agreement under which VÚB Bank will begin offering a new loan to support energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources. The program is designed for businesses, the public sector, and other eligible entities that wish to invest in sustainable modernization, energy efficiency improvements, and green technologies.

The new financial instrument combines a loan, a grant, and a guarantee into a single comprehensive solution, allowing clients to combine bank financing with support from European Union and Slovakia Program funds.

Financing that reduces both costs and risk

One of the program’s main advantages is the possibility of obtaining a grant in the form of a partial principal forgiveness, which can reduce total repayments by approximately 15% to 49%, depending on the type of project and fulfillment of the scheme’s conditions. The loan is also covered by an SIH portfolio guarantee covering 80% of the principal, which increases the availability of financing even for more investment-intensive projects.

“Energy efficiency is no longer just an environmental issue. For both companies and public institutions, it represents a strategic decision that helps reduce operating costs, increase competitiveness, and better manage energy price volatility. Our collaboration with Slovak Investment Holding allows us to offer clients a solution that is financially advantageous and has long-term value,” stated Vedrana Jelušić Kašić, Advisor to the Management Board for Corporate banking at VÚB Bank.

Who is the program intended for

The program is available to:

• small and medium-sized enterprises as well as large companies,
• energy companies,
• public administration entities,
• non-governmental and non-profit organizations,

that are making investments within the territory of the Slovak Republic and operate in eligible economic sectors.

Companies interested in participating can visit their nearest VÚB branch or contact their relationship manager.

Supported investments

Financing is primarily intended for projects focused on:

• reducing the energy intensity of buildings and production processes,
• modernizing heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting,
• integrating renewable energy sources (solar, geothermal, biomass, biogas, etc.),
• energy management and optimization of energy consumption,
• adaptation measures such as green roofs, water retention solutions, or shading technology,
• infrastructure for electromobility, and other measures recommended in energy audits.

The results of the investments must be demonstrated by an energy audit or an energy certificate.

An important boost for the Slovak economy

According to both partners, the program is a significant step toward strengthening the competitiveness of the Slovak economy and accelerating the green transformation of industry, the business sector, and public infrastructure.

“At Slovak Investment Holding, we aim to be a partner that helps turn high-quality projects into tangible investments with long-term economic and environmental benefits. By combining grant support, financing provided by participating Slovak banks, and guarantees, we are creating a growth-promoting financial instrument that not only supports investment and competitiveness but can also significantly accelerate the green transition of businesses and the public sector in Slovakia,” said Peter Fröhlich, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Slovak Investment Holding.

Loans under the program can be contracted, disbursed, and investments made no later than June 30, 2029.