Grasp final publication project results & achievements by Grasp Med

Green pRocurement And Smart city suPport in the energy sector

FINAL PUBLICATION June 2015

GRASP the green way into the energy sector! Program Reference: 1C-MED12-33

FINAL PUBLICATION June 2015

GRASP editorial Smart Cities and Communities provide a fertile environment for innovation and sustainable development in MED regions. In the energy sector, smart application of green technologies can increase the cost-effectiveness of public procurement, and strengthen the competitiveness of SMEs. The GRASP project was established in MED in 2013 in order to support green public procurement, and facilitate participation by SMEs in the Energy Efficiency (EE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES) sectors in smart cities. To accomplish this it developed a knowledge base and tools for electronic Green Public Procurement (e-GPP) as well as tools for evaluating green tenders based on Life Cycle Costing. The GRASP platform is built to assist public agencies and SMEs in e-GPP so that they use properly assessed green products and services, where each user can access green properties, thus guaranteeing proper conditions for smart green tools servicing the needs of MED region. We believe that this will give the opportunity for energy professionals to promote green products and services in a dynamic way, increasing their competitive advantage and promoting local, regional and cross-border development. Under the Energy Efficiency Directive (2012/27), GRASP stands ready to work in creating the right climate for continued green development efforts in interconnected MED regions, in order to consolidate the purchase of green products and services that meet high EE requirements while supporting international interaction and opportunities for sustainable development. We warmly invite you to join us in our efforts! Yorgos Stephanedes, P.E. Coordinator for the GRASP team

1. Innovation and Smart Cities

A smart city is a place where the traditional networks and services are made more efficient with the use of digital and telecommunication technologies, for the benefit of its inhabitants and businesses. With this vision in mind, the European Union is investing in ICT research and innovation and developing policies to improve the quality of life of citizens and make cities more sustainable in view of Europe's 20-20-20 targets.1 The smart city concept goes beyond the use of ICT for better resource use and reduced emissions. It means smarter urban transport networks, upgraded water supply and waste disposal facilities, and more efficient ways to light and heat buildings. And it also encompasses a more interactive and responsive city administration, safer public spaces and meeting the needs of an ageing population.1

EU Context

With the publication in June 2010 of the strategy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Europe 2020â&#x20AC;?, the European Commission has launched a series of reflections on the evolution of European policies in a context characterised by economic crisis and the need to promote innovation, competitiveness and sustainable development policies. In line with this strategy, the EU Commission announced that 6,4 billion Euros will be invested in research and innovation, corresponding to the largest investment ever done in Europe in this sector. The main axes of the strategy are the promotion of low carbon industries, investment in the development of new products, exploiting the opportunities of the digital economy, and modernization of education and training. One objective is to improve the environment of enterprises, especially SMEs, and support industrial activities in front of international competition. 1

https://ec.europa.eu/digital-agenda/en/smart-cities http://www.programmemed.eu/fileadmin/PROG_MED/Appels_offres/APPEL_Innovation_Energy/Terms _of_reference_Targeted_call_axis_1_2_EN.pdf

1. Innovation and Smart Cities With global warming and increasing urban and demographic pressure, Mediterranean regions are confronted to specific challenges which must be better taken into account to promote sectors in which they could become EU and international key players. This goal is reflected in the strategies of “smart specialisation” that multiply in Europe and that have significant potential in sectors related to “green growth” (water management, pollution control, energy, agriculture, transport, construction, etc.). In addition to strengthening innovation capacity as such (support to SMEs, information, training, clustering, support for research and technology transfer), innovation depends on the level and nature of demand. This is particularly true in markets that are in a process of change (like the energy sector) in which innovation, in order to spread and become profitable, should be based on a strong and wellstructured demand. This approach refers to the leverage effects of “green public procurement” (GPP), or to the actions of the “Lead Market Initiative (LMI) for Europe” which aims to promote the transfer of technological and non technological innovations based on the evolution of regulations, public procurement and standardization. With collaborative procurement, public bodies can agree on criteria for novel products that they intend to support or purchase in coming years, and invite manufacturers to develop and supply such products. This represents a strong means to foster innovation in SMEs and a way to improve awareness and competences in public administrations. With the promotion of sustainable urban development, the development of eco-quartiers and smart cities initiatives, public authorities can significantly influence the supply side provided that they impose strong cost efficiency requirements and rigorous evaluation criteria.

1. Innovation and Smart Cities

MED programme intervention 2 Since 2008, the economic crisis accelerated economic change, and encouraged companies and partners to evolve towards more sustainable development strategies. This context of change has stimulated thoughts on the prospects for “green growth” driven by the requirement to be more careful in the use of resources (energy costs and impact on the environment) and the need for more investment and innovation in sectors that create wealth and jobs for the future (energy, construction, transport). “Eco-industries” offer significant growth prospects (new technologies, products and services reducing environmental impact, fighting against pollution, health risks). At the EU level, energy related emissions account for almost 80% of the total greenhouse gas emission. Challenges are especially strong in urban areas, which consume up to 80% of the energy and which represent significant innovation capacities to progress towards more sustainable development models. It is now clear that without a technological shift, the EU will fail on its 2050 ambitions to decarbonise the electricity and transport sectors. New technologies will reach markets more quickly and more economically if they are developed through collaboration at the EU level. On the demand side, still a lot must be done to better implement existing solutions, either through more targeted and professional public procurement or with a stronger involvement of final users in decision making, awareness raising and training activities. As technologies must still be improved, there is major concern about wider and more efficient use of available solutions. On the supply side, substantial improvements can be brought by further supporting SMEs in offering innovative solutions that satisfy the demand needs. In the Mediterranean regions, one key issue for the coming years will be the management of scarce resources (energy, water, land) in an environment characterised by global warming

1. Innovation and Smart Cities and increasing urban and demographic pressure. The diversity of Mediterranean contexts and the scattered demand necessitate that public policies play a stronger role in promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency on the one hand (demand side) and encouraging innovation and creativity, especially in favour of small and medium energy services companies on the other hand (supply side). In this regard, non-technological innovation must play a stronger role, parallel to the technological one, integrating more efficient strategies, knowledge and information management, governance (involving decision makers, stakeholders). Among the large scale EU initiatives launched by the Commission, the “smart cities” innovation partnership will bring together the best from the areas of renewable energies, energy efficiency, smart electricity grids, smart heating and cooling grids, combined with highly innovative intelligence and ICT tools. On these issues, EU Regional Policy can play an important role in unlocking local potential. Among tools available, public procurement can constitute a significant leverage effect with around €1,500 billion being spent each year by public authorities (16% of EU GDP). Public procurement rules can promote efficiency conditions to increase energy savings, spread innovative solutions and contribute to the transition towards “smart cities”. In seeking energy savings, efforts should be concentrated on the whole energy chain, from energy production, via transmission and distribution, to final consumption. Effective compliance monitoring, adequate market surveillance, widespread usage of energy services and audits, as well as material efficiency and recycling are all musts. Concerning renewable energy sources (RES), the level of technological development and market penetration differs considerably from one technology to the other. From a costefficiency point of view, in certain locations and under certain conditions, sources such as wind, hydro, biomass and solar thermal are already economically viable . But others, such as photovoltaic, will depend on increased demand to improve economies of scale and lower costs. Many technological and innovative developments can still be introduced in the sector to improve its competitiveness. On this issue, the energy mix is considered as a relevant solution to adapt to various consumption needs and territorial context. Small scale solutions are being developed and Mediterranean SMEs could increase their innovation capacity to become key player in this sector (cogeneration, photovoltaic, solar thermal systems, small scale wind energy, etc.). These potentialities are supported by the rapid developments of information and communication technologies, which offer potential for a shift to less resource-intensive products and services and have opened-up the possibility for increasingly “smart” houses and offices. Technological change is also happening at the interface between the renewable energy sector and the eco-construction sector. The integration of renewable energy technologies in building components is a particularly promising area.

1. Innovation and Smart Cities

MED programme 2007-2013

Τhe general objective of the MED programme period to which GRASP belongs is “to make the whole Med space a territory able to match international concurrence in order to ensure growth and employment for the next generations. Support territorial cohesion and actively intervene in favour of environmental protection in a logic of sustainable development.” These issues cannot be tackled efficiently, neither at the regional nor at national scale: they require a significant effort in terms of transnational coordination and consultation.

This general orientation is developed in the MED Programme through four main Axes in connection with the main priorities of the ERDF regulation. ·

Innovation: creation and development of scientific and technological networks, and the enhancement of regional R&TD and innovation capacities, where these make a direct contribution to the balanced economic development of transnational areas.

Environment: water management, energy efficiency, risk prevention and environmental protection activities with a clear transnational dimension.

Accessibility: activities to improve access to and quality of transport and telecommunications services where these have a clear transnational dimension.

Sustainable urban development: strengthening polycentric development at transnational, national and regional level, with a clear transnational impact.

1. Innovation and Smart Cities

One of the main objectives of MED programme 2007-2013 was to better identify and strengthen innovation capacities of Mediterranean SMEs, and support the implementation of innovative solutions for renewable energy and energy efficiency in Mediterranean cities. AXIS 2 was a main axis of the MED Programme: “Protection of the environment and promotion of a sustainable territorial development” and especially the Promotion of renewable energies and improvement of energy efficiency (objective 2.2.). The focus of this Axis was on the promotion of innovative renewable energy or/and energy efficiency solutions for smart Mediterranean cities, especially by taking into account the success and failures of on-going initiatives. These difficulties may relate to poor performance in term of efficiency or economy of energy, lack of skills and knowledge, excessive costs, etc.. The objective was to promote strategies, planning and measures ensuring that innovative solutions are implemented and used in the best cost-efficient way.

Specific objectives 2 of AXIS 2 Strengthen public policy and strategy ¥

To analyse on-going experiences of “eco-quartiers” and “smart cities” initiatives in Mediterranean regions, and highlight in particular organisational and technical difficulties, costs efficiency assessment, capacities to reach energy savings objectives.

To identify methods, public policies and exchange experiences on the way to plan and setup “eco-quartiers” and “smart cities” initiatives. To find out and overcome obstacles hindering cities to launch such initiatives

To develop and promote operational recommendations to overcome these difficulties (definition of objectives and quality requirements, energy management schemes, audits, competences all along the supply chains, awareness raising and competences of final users).

1. Innovation and Smart Cities

Improve knowledge for better energy management ¥

To improve access to public data and information related to renewable energy sources (RES) and energy efficiency (EE) (for SMEs, citizens, households)

To improve knowledge and competences concerning standards, quality requirements, technical aspects and needs in public administrations

To improve the access for all to information related to energy consumption and energy efficiency in relation with energy production and distribution businesses (smart meters, use of white certificates, Energy performance contracts)

Promote smart management of supply and demand ¥

To increase skills and competences of public procurement services on the issues of RES and EE

To setup networks of public procurers (identification of needs, market and command analysis, definition of standards, common investments)

To ensure that public demand includes all cost-optimal energy efficiency measures and promote them in relation with businesses (better knowledge of solutions available, quality requirements, search for innovative solution or services, life cycle analysis, innovative procurement methods)

To mobilise, consult, inform final users to better identify needs and ensure an adequate and efficient use of available technologies

To mobilise intermediary bodies (Chamber of Commerce, Business Centres, innovation agencies) with public institutions to improve the quality of public demand

Promote initiatives to ensure that existing RES and EE solutions are implemented and used in the most cost-efficient way (competences, standards, fulfillment of quality requirements, awareness raising).

Towards the achievement of these goals and objectives, the main idea of GRASP project was born and developed.

2. GRASP project

The general objective of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;GRASP: Green pRocurement And Smart city suPport in the energy sectorâ&#x20AC;? project is to strengthen the position of smart cities in adopting innovative solutions in the energy sector in Mediterranean regions and to increase their potential at transnational level by developing a specialized e-procurement system instrument. The main project idea was built around the MED program objective 2.2 for the promotion of innovative renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions for smart Mediterranean cities. The main theme of GRASP is to support MED smart cities to increase their potential of organizing and deploying smart and green e-Procurement processes with focus on renewable energy and energy efficient solutions. Towards this, the project will implement its transnational activities taking into account related EC directives and Regulations, as well as of national regulations of the participating MED countries, on Public Procurement.

The objective of GRASP is to increase the potential of MED Smart cities in organizing and developing Smart and Green e-Procurement processes with a focus on renewable energy sources and energy efficient solutions. The development of an advanced green transnational procurement system will empower the cooperation between the MED public administrations and SMEs involved in adopting innovative solutions in the energy sector while enabling them to better meet their carbon reduction commitments by 2020.

Project Main Goals

2. GRASP project

¥ promotion of green energy procurement (renewable sources, "green" materials), through the development of an e-procurement tool based on a transnational model that is transferable across regions

¥ validation of the new e-procurement service through joint pilots to facilitate its use by EU public administrations and private sector

¥ support of green energy solutions, strengthening the capacity of local/regional SMEs and authorities

¥ sharing of expertise and best practices amongst authorities ¥ dissemination, information and training of public authorities, SMEs

Project Main Outputs

and other stakeholders

¥ An online supply management system for green procurement processes with emphasis on energy;

¥ A method for sharing knowledge (expertise and best practices) amongst partners and stakeholders;

¥ A database architecture that strengthens the capacity of local/regional authorities to set quality green energy requirements, and of SMEs to propose solutions that implement these requirements;

¥ An intelligent energy demand-supply matching system

The project is funded by national funding agencies, participating entities, and the European Commission through ERDF. It is a 27-month project (April 2013 - June 2015) with a total budget of 2.235.000 €. Its consortium consists of 13 entities from 8 different European countries: Greece, Spain, Italy, France, Malta, Cyprus, Albania and BosniaHerzegovina.

3. The partnership

1. University of Patras (Lead Partner) The University of Patras was founded in the city of Patras in 1964. Its University Campus is located 12 km East of Patras, in the area of Rion, covering a flat area of 4.500 acres. It is the third largest University in Greece. The University of Patras has acquired international prominence for pioneering and innovative research in areas such as Environment, Health, Biotechnology, Mechanics, Electronics, Informatics and basic science. A number of its Departments, Laboratories and Clinics have been internationally designated as Centers of Excellence. The Department of Civil Engineering was founded in 1972 and it consists of three Divisions covering the areas of Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering and Hydraulic Engineering, and Environmental Engineering and Transportation Engineering. The Department operates 8 Laboratories for teaching and research (Structural Engineering, Structural Materials, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydraulic Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Architectural Technology & Spatial Planning, and Surveying Laboratories). Website: http://www.upatras.gr

3. The partnership

2. Province of Perugia Provincia di Perugia is a Local Authority instituted in 1860, an intermediate level between the Municipalities and the Umbria Region and it has statutory, organisational, administrative and financial autonomy. It represents the community of the Province, it protects its interests, promotes and coordinates economic, social, civil and cultural development. It is located in the centre of Italy and is the bigger among the two Provinces of the Umbria Region (about the 70% of the Umbria territory). Its main competences are: Environment and energy, management of educational buildings, civil protection, road conditions, local growth,education and training, culture and tourism. The Province staff is skilled in the management of EU projects and is expertised in procurement procedures with ecological criteria in the purchasing of products/services with low environmental impact. Website: http://www.provincia.perugia.it

3. Institute for the Research and Improvement of Social Sciences The Institute for the esearch and Improvement of Social Sciences (IRISS) is a Malta-based independent, non-profit civil society research institute with an exclusive focus on the social sciences. It was formally established as a distinct legal personality in June 2012, following the gradual setting up of its informal structures in the preceding decade. The IRISS's main objectives are to: enhance knowledge through seminars, workshops and active participation in learning programmes; raise public awareness about the social sciences, including political studies, social psychology, sociology, economics and anthropology, and their importance in understanding and improving the world we live in; encourage the advancement of scientific knowledge in the social sciences through scholarly breakthroughs; encourage the development of new tools and theories in the social sciences with a view to widening the real-world applicability of the social sciences; compete for public (mostly EU) Funding in the social sciences area. Website: http://researchsocialsciences.org

3. The partnership

4. Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Terrassa The main purpose of the Chamber of Commerce of Terrassa as an organisation with experience in corporate matters is to protect the interests of companies which are elemental to the economic and social development of the demarcation area. The final objective of their agenda is to satisfy the needs of the companies. In this context, the entity has become a benchmark reference when it comes to offering services in the areas of internationalisation, managerial training and consulting services in industrial and environmental matters, supported by a team of highly qualified professionals who will deal with inquiries and corporate requirements. These initiatives have been developed into six service lines which include all the areas of consultancy that a company might require: Technical Consultancy, Commercial Information, Training, Internationalisation and Administrative Procedures. The Chamber also offers a Company Creation Service with the objective of promoting a business model that contributes to safeguarding the economic development of the demarcation area. Website: http://www.cambraterrassa.es

5. Mountain Community Alto Basento (Program Area Basento Bradano Camastra) ComunitĂ Montana Alto Basento, is a territorial association (Public Authority) in a mountain region in the heart of Basilicata. The Association was creative on 3th of December 1971 and it includes 20 municipalities of the Province of Potenza: Abriola, Acereza, Albano di Lucania, Anzi, Avigliano, Brindisi Montagna, Calvello, Campomaggiore, Cancellara, Castelmezzano, Filiano, Laurenzana, Pietragalla, Pietrapertosa, San Chirico Nuovo, Trivigno, Pignola, Vaglio Basilicata, Oppido Lucano e Tolve. CMAB promoted the Program Area Basento, Bradano, Camastra that is involved also in the transnational activities of the Mountain Community like GRASP and SEE TCP SAGITTARIUS. Since 1994, CMAB has participaded in a considerable number of project. Website: http://www.areaprogrammabasento.it

3. The partnership

6. Municipality of Spata-Artemis The Municipality of Spata â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Artemida is located 20 km east of Athens. Within the geographical borders of the municipality, the Athens International Airport has been operating since 2001, which is the largest airport in Greece. The municipality comes from the union of the former municipalities Spata and Artemida due to the most recent territorial and administrative reorganization of local government. The municipality covers an area of 77 square kilometers and a population of permanent residents approximately 33.821 inhabitants. Spata traditionally is a rural area that it is now changing rapidly in region of residence and business location in the tertiary sector while the agricultural cultivation mainly with olives and vine, still remains. Artemida is a place of summer residence and varied marine tourism while now it is transformed in a region where the inhabitats from the capital choose to relocate and live elsewhere. Website: http://spata-artemis.gr ,

7. Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Navigation of Castellon The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Navigation of Castellon is a consultative and collaborative body for public administrations of the province of Castellon. Its main mission is the representation, the promotion and the defence of the general interest of commerce, industry and services. It represents more than 43.000 enterprises of different size and from different sectors. The Chamber of Commerce is supporting enterprises of the province to set and growth their business and to adapt them to the new economy challenges. This support, specially focus on SMEs, is done through several departments such as innovation and ICT, environment and energy, business development and internationalization. Website: http://www.camaracastellon.com

3. The partnership

8. ATLANTIS Consulting Cyprus ltd Atlantis Consulting Cyprus Ltd was founded in 2000 as a member of the ATLANTIS group. The mother company is based in Thessoloniki Greece and is represented also with offices in Athens, Patra and Crete. The group also includes ATLANTIS Engineering SA. The group employs a total of 75 permanent staff and over 100 permanent associates. The Company offers services and support to the public and private sectors in the fields of environmental licensing and management, securing and managing EU and National funds and business planning. In addition it provides services to the Cypriot and EU public sector for the assessment of programmes and projects, technoeconomic studies and environmental management. ATLANTIS Consulting Cyprus ltd has had an especially successful activity characterized by the development of innovative projects and services and continuous expansion of its activities. Its services concentrate on supporting clients with environmental management and environmental legal compliance, and in helping clients implement business development and investments plans through the absorption of national and EU funds. Website: http://www.atlantis-consulting.eu

9. APEA Siena - Provincial Agency for Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development APEA SIENA is the Agency for Energy, Environment, and sustainable Development of the Province of Siena. Its main aim is to give operational development at local level to the Provincial Energy Plan. Its main competencies are environment and energy and it is a local development agency which operates in strict contact with the territory (SMEs, Public Authorities, Association etc). As Provincial Agency it supports innovation and networks for sustainable development in general, with a particular attention to the use of ICT for the improvement of energy performance of public and private sector. Website: http://www.apea.siena.it

3. The partnership

10. Syndicat Intercommunal dElectrification et dEclairage Public de la Haute Corse The Inter-District Association of Electrification and Lighting of Haute-Corse (SIEEP) is a public body to which 234 municipalities of the Corsica island adhere, to the benefit of 120,000 inhabitants. The SIEEP purpose is to: 1) Set up all public electricity distribution networks. Annually, SIEEP builds 60 kms of network and carries out capacity reinforcement operations for 60 other kms. These networks are given to the concession of EDF (French Company of Electricity), which ensures power supply. 2) Control of the electric consumption demand. Corsica is a region whose annual electricity consumption has doubled compared to the continent. Its insular situation questions with acuity its energetic autonomy and encourages thinking of an energetic model that would combine sustainability and affordability for the final consumer.

11. Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis Pileaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Hortiatis is a suburban Municipality next to Thessaloniki city, in the Region Of Central Macedonia, with a population of more than 100.000 citizens, and a size of at least 155.800 decare. The Municipality is a relatively sparsely populated district offering opportunities for major residential and business development, in the context of the more general development prospects enjoyed by the Greater Thessaloniki area. Emphasis is currently being laid on the development of the new service economy, an area in which Pilea-Hortiatis offers numerous competitive advantages. The great challenge the Municipality faces is to combine economic growth with respect to the environment and a guaranteed quality of life for its residents. Pileaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Hortiatis is also home to one of the EU's decentralized agencies, Cedefop, the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training. Website: http://www.pilea-hortiatis.gr

3. The partnership

12. University of Vlora University of Vlora “Ismail Qemali” is a public institution of High Education, of teaching and scientific nature. It was established on 10 October 1994. University of Vlora is a nationally recognized, public university offering students a personal, highquality, affordable education through a diverse combination of liberal studies, professional instruction, cultural and social experiences, professional master and master of science.The university has four faculties, Technical Sciences, Economy, Human Sciences, Public Health and 10.600 students studying at its programs (30 Bachelor, Master of Sciences, 14 Professional Master and 1 PhD). University of Vlora prosecutes its institutional activity independently within international university system, in cooperation with partners and by self regulating relations, in order to full fills its objectives. In accordance with these objectives it draws and takes part in specific programs and projects with national and international partners. Website: http://univl.univlora.edu.al

13. City Development Agency East Sarajevo The City Development Agency East Sarajevo – RAIS is a development agency with non-profit character with the aim of promotion, presentation, coordination, planning and performance of development activities at the territory of the city of East Sarajevo. The founder of the Agency is the city of East Sarajevo and the six municipalities it consists of (Sokolac, Pale, East Stari Grad, East Novo Sarajevo, East Ilidža and Trnovo). The mission of RAIS is to create a positive business environment and to improve general socio-economic situation at the territory of the city, through the cooperation with local public, private and nongovernmental sector, and also with international organizations, achieving equal economic development of all six municipalities within the city of East Sarajevo. Website: http://rais.rs.ba

4. Regional Analyses

Introduction In the first year of project implementation, each partner carried out a survey in his territory in order to identify the needs of the targeted groups, mainly Public Procurers and SMEs active in the energy sector. For the purposes of the survey, targeted questionnaires were developed according to the type of the stakeholder they were addressing: one for the Public Administrations and one for the SMEs. The questionnaires were distributed to the identified users (PAs and SMEs), and the results were analysed and recorded in 13 Regional Analysis Reports, one for each partner's territory.

The survey aimed to: (1) record the knowledge of the targeted groups concerning (e)GPP and EE/RES technologies (2) collect information on the technical and non-technical barriers (3) identify the current state of public procurement and energy usage (RES and Energy Efficiency-Î&#x2022;Î&#x2022;) in the region covered by the GRASP project (4) identify the needs of each type of stakeholder with regards to the training they would like to receive concerning eGPP, EE and RES technologies.

The findings of the survey supported the definition of the thematology of GRASP seminars and the content of the educational material that was developed for the needs of the seminars. Below are presented the main conclusions that derived from each partner's Regional Analysis.

4. Regional Analyses Western Greece

Regional Analysis for Western Greece University of Patras The project Lead Partner (University of Patras), carried out a survey covering the region of Western Greece. Ten Public Authorities and 7 SMEs participated in the survey. Most PA users knew or at least had an overview about what Green Public Procurement is, in contrast to the SMEs who couldn't give an answer. Almost none of the questioned SMEs knew the National Regulation for GPP. Although most PA users stated they know which law refers to GPP, it is uncertain if they really know the regulation.

Conclusions o Most users do not know their national and/or regional e-GPP regulations. o The PAs are better informed on these matters than the SMEs. o SMEs indicate knowledge on the regulations (but what they actually know is not certain).

None of the questioned PAs and SMEs has ever participated in (or applied for) a GPP, and this is mostly due to lack of information. Other important reasons identified are the lack of technical resources for the PAs; the lack of economic resources; and the perceived low probability of success for the SMEs. All provided options were evaluated by the questioned using a scale of importance 1-7, where 7 indicates the most important reason.

4. Regional Analyses Western Greece

For both types of user (SMEs and PAs), â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saving money and timeâ&#x20AC;? is the main reason to participate in an electronic GPP. Other important reasons identified are: the environmental commitment and the flexibility for the SMEs; the environmental commitment of their organization, the flexibility and the fact that it is the only procurement method allowed, for the PAs.

4 Regional Analyses Western Greece On the question concerning the main external barrier to access GPP, SMEs identified the insufficient demand for green products as the main barrier, whilst PAs identified the long process of bureaucracy.

4. Regional Analyses Western Greece Both groups of users would like to receive training in sectorial workshops (necessitiesadvice), GPP Legal Framework (regional/national level) and Manuals elaboration: guides, brochures (by economic sector).

4. Regional Analyses Western Greece Both groups would also like to receive training in IT tools for energy efficiency (consumption and estimation of potential savings simulation, evaluation report on options of improvement), energy savings diagnosis electric bills analysis and green certification. PAs were more interested in Eco-labeling and Energy Management System standard (ISO 50001), whereas the SMEs were equally interested in all provided options.

4. Regional Analyses Province of Perugia (Italy)

Regional Analysis for Province of Perugia

Province of Perugia The results of the survey carried out in the territory of the Province of Perugia showed that both users (SMEs and PAs) know what GPP and eGPP is; however, Public Administrations are more informed than SMEs on current GPP and eGPP regulations, at National and Regional level. Concerning the effective capacity and experience in participating in GPP system, the SMEs have never participated in a GPP system while the Public Administrations declared to have used Green criteria and policies (6 out of 10).

Save time and the environmental commitment of their organisation are the main reasons for PAs to use eGPP. For the SMEs, the main reason to participate in an eGPP is to save money.

4. Regional Analyses Province of Perugia (Italy) The survey highlights that the lack of information is not seen as a real barrier to participate in a GPP. The majority of the SMEs consider that the lack of legal experience in the field and the non-fulfillment of tender established requirements are the main barriers to participate in a GPP. Moreover, the responding companies identify as main external barriers to GPP, the insufficient demand of such products/services, the restrictive criteria that disallow one's own product from being eligible for consideration, the higher cost of green products or services in the territory and, finally, the lack of information & useful tools on Administration side. The common points between SMEs and PAs about the perception of the main external barriers to GPP are the insufficient demand of such products/services, and the higher cost of green products or services in the territory.

Concerning the preferred subjects for training, a clear majority of the PAs respondents (90%) would like to receive training concerning GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level. Another significant percentage (70%) needs practical training, such as via sectorial workshops providing assistance on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;necessitiesâ&#x20AC;?. Benchmarking and best practices exchange can also be an interesting method to transfer more knowledge and competencies to implement a GPP system with the support of guides and manuals.

4 Regional Analyses Province of Perugia (Italy) Regarding the training that SMEs are willing to receive, the respondents highlight the GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level, and find useful the organization of sectorial workshops providing advice on necessities. About the questions on the training subjects in which SMEs could be interested; except for IT tools for energy efficiency, no clear-cut majorities have come to light from the analysis amongst the companies involved. For example, about the green certification, it is evident that the SME respondents are aware of the topic, differently from the Public Administration interviewed. Generally, in the Province of Perugia the awareness about GPP is very low and the personnel in charge of purchasing are more interested in the economic issues of a tender, such as the price of goods and services, rather than their environmental impact. The higher initial cost of green products or services is perceived as an important factor to limit the development of GPP system in the territory of the Province of Perugia; as well as the low demand for these products and services in the territory. The questioned PAs are aware of the existence of a GPP policy but they are not well informed about the regulation; this is due to the voluntary nature of GPP in Italy, which has led to the application of composite regulations and different applications amongst Italian regions. At the same time the spending review laws have favored a transparent system by the e-market manager, a company owned by the Ministry of the Environment (MEPA). For this reason in Italy it is not possible to establish the implementation of an e-GPP system without involving the CONSIP organisation.

4. Regional Analyses Malta

Regional Analysis for Malta IRISS In Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s survey, there is divergence as to how PAs and SMEs have defined what GPP is. PAs have a deeper understanding of the term and can relate to the requirements and criteria that refer to the awarding of green services and products. SMEs on the other hand seem to have a very basic knowledge of GPP and none of the respondents caught on the impact that GPP may have for their organization, such as developing innovative products and services. PAs were all aware that there was a GPP policy in Malta. This is somewhat contrasting to the replies submitted by SMEs as 40% of respondents did not know that there is a GPP policy in Malta. The results of PAs indicate that 80% of the respondents knew that a national regulation for e-GPP existed whereas 60% of the respondents of SMEs knew about this regulation. This again shows that in PAs camp knowledge and awareness in electronic public procurement is higher when compared to the knowledge and awareness of SMEs. PAs and SMEs perceive bureaucracy, lack of information and higher cost of green products/services as the main external barriers to GPP as they scored these as more important collectively than the other listed criteria. Overall one may conclude that there is a significant lack of information on GPP across both PAs and SMEs, as well as other significant external barriers to GPP that need to be addressed.

4. Regional Analyses Malta The main reasons for SMEs to not participate in an eGPP are mainly the lack of information, the lack of interest and the lack of experience; whereas the main reasons to participate in an eGPP are: the compulsory nature of the procedure and the flexibility that it offers.

Both PAs and SMEs rated training related to GPP legal framework as the most important type of training they would like to receive. They also highly rated training related to sectorial workshops and training about quality management systems. SMEs would prefer to receive training on certification as well as energy saving diagnostics. This is understandable as the private sector may use certification and labels to market its products and services favorably to consumers. Generally they are also more oriented towards attaining competitive advantage through cost cutting and providing cheaper products as well as services. SMEs also have hefty energy bills which adversely impact their profitability and thus they may be more inclined to monitor their overhead costs such as energy, and try to find alternative ways of how this cost may be reduced.

4. Regional Analyses Malta

4. Regional Analyses Terrassa (Spain)

Regional Analysis for Terrassa (Spain) CCI of Terrassa

According to the findings of the survey that was carried out in the region of Terrassa, Public Authorities are more informed, about green public procurement and electronic public procurement than small and medium enterprises. Regarding green public procurement PAs has reached a high degree of development of sustainable processes and of methodologies regarding the ways in which it should be structured, defining in detail the processes and the environmental criteria. It can be said that any administration has the necessary tools available and can deploy them. SMEs claim that their products incorporate ecological values, and that they are aware of the existence of green public procurement. However, SMEs participation in electronic Public Procurement is rather low and even lower when it comes to green public procurement. The main barrier for this is considered to be the long process of bureaucracy; whereas the main reason to participate in an eGPP is the saving of time. In contrast to big companies, no clear strategy is focused on the participation of SMEs in green tenders, probably because of the difficulties faced in the preparation of a green tender, the long process of bureaucracy and matters of eligibility for certain projects. Larger companies can more easily participate in green tenders because they have more human and money resources. Usually companies follow specific environmental compliance standards such as ISO14000 while the authorities don't. However, SMEs expect from PAs to give more information about the benefits of green public procurement, harmonization of regulations, more transparency and less bureaucracy. In order to enforce the participation of SMEs in the eGPP process, it is necessary for them to receive training on eGPP procedures, national and regional legislation.

4. Regional Analyses Basilicata (Italy)

Regional Analysis for Basilicata Region (Italy)

Mountain Community Alto Basento (PABBC) In the case of the region of Basilicata (Italy), both SMEs and PAs that participated in the survey, showed great interest and strong sensitivity on the topic. The questioned PAs had limited knowledge on GPP and were not aware of the national/regional legislation. On the contrary, most PAs knew what eGPP is and were informed about MEPA and CONSIP. Sixty percent of the questioned SMEs knew what the GPP is, and 50% were aware of the existence of a national policy GPP. Seventy percent of the SMEs knew what eGPP is but most of them did not know the national legislation about it. The majority of the questioned PAs do not use eGPP. The main reasons to use an electronic GPP are to save time, money and to satisfy the environmental commitment of their organisation. Nine out of 10 questioned SMEs had never participated in a GPP, and this is mainly due to lack of economic resources, lack of information and lack of human resources.

According to the PAs, the main external barriers in using eGPP are the higher cost of green products or services; the lack of information & useful tools on Administration side; and the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations.

4. Regional Analyses Basilicata (Italy)

According to the SMEs, the main external barriers in using eGPP are: the long process of bureaucracy; the lack of information & useful tools on Administration side; the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations; and the insufficient demand for green products or services.

4. Regional Analyses Basilicata (Italy) The questioned PAs would like to receive training on: benchmarking and best practice events, Quality Management Systems, and GPP framework at regional / national level. Moreover, they were interested in IT tools and specifically in the estimated consumption and savings potential of the simulator. Finally the PAs would like to attend seminars about: Eco-design Management, Energy Management System Standard, Energy Audit Verification, Carbon footprint and Sustainable forest management and wood products.

4. Regional Analyses Basilicata (Italy) The questioned SMEs would like to receive training on GPP framework at regional / national, sectoral workshops; and training on Quality Management Systems. They would also like to attend seminars on IT tools and: Monitoring of Greenhouse Gases of emissions, Eco-labeling, Carbon footprint and Sustainable forest management and wood products.

4. Regional Analyses Attiki (Greece)

Regional Analysis for Attiki (Greece) Municipality of Spata Artemis In the region of Attiki (Greece), both PAs and SMEs seem to have a general idea about what GPP and eGPP is, but the majority of them are not aware of the national / regional regulation. The PAs seem to be better informed on these matters compared to the SMEs. 43% of the questioned PAs do not use eGPP, and this is mostly due to lack of time / human resources , lack of technical resources and lack of information. 50% of the questioned SMEs stated that they had never participated in a GPP mostly, and this is due to lack of information. Other significant reasons are the perceived low probability of success, the lack of human resources, and the low probability of success based on experience. Level of importance (max=7)

4. Regional Analyses Attiki (Greece) The main reason for PAs to use eGPP is the environmental commitment of their organisation. Other significant reason is to save money. Time savings and flexibility are considered as secondary reasons. For SMEs, the main reasons to participate in an eGPP are to save money and time. Level of importance (max=7)

The main barriers that PAs identify in the use of GPP are mainly the higher cost of green products/services, and the lack of information and useful tools on Administration. According to the SMEs, the main external barriers to access eGPP are the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations, and the long process of bureaucracy. Other important barriers are the restrictive criteria that disallow own product from being eligible for consideration, the insufficient demand for green products or services, the lack of legal experience, and the lack of information and useful tools on Administration side.

4. Regional Analyses Attiki (Greece)

Level of importance (max=7)

All questioned PAs and SMEs showed great interest in receiving training, and rated all the available training options equally highly with minor differences. The most highly rated was to receive training on GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level. Regarding the IT tools for energy efficiency, the majority of the PAs rated the evaluation report options for improvement as the most important while the majority of the SMEs rated equally both options (Evaluation report on options for improvement and Consumption and estimation of potential savings simulator). Regarding the Energy saving diagnosis-electric bill analysis: the majority of SMEs considered roughly all categories as very important while the majority of PAs considered contract conditions as most important.

4. Regional Analyses Toscana (Italy)

Regional Analysis for the region of Toscana (Italy) APEA Siena In the case of the region of Toscana (Italy), only 15% of the questioned PAs doesn't know anything about national GPP policies and more than 50% of them knows the existence of a Tuscan regulation and its e-platform (START). All PAs are aware of eGPP and 85% of the sample knows the national regulation, in particular they mention CONSIP, the national agency and it is e-market MEPA, which is compulsory according to the legislation. Even though an electronic Public Procurement system is compulsory since 2012, less than 57% of the questioned municipalities use it. It is clear that the electronic procurement system is still unknown and not used as requested by the national or regional regulation. The main reasons of the potential/current use of an electronic GPP by PAs are: the commitment of the organization and for saving money. 60% of the PAs acknowledge the importance of receiving training on useful instruments to face GPP and on the legal framework at regional/national level. Conclusion: Even though electronic Public Procurement is compulsory in Italy since 2007, many local public bodies are not familiar with it. Green PP is better known but is still a pioneer aspect. It is obvious that PAs need training and legal assistance on eGPP since they show scarce knowledge on the subject, probably due to the recent legislative obligation or due to bad management of the purchases (for instance competences broken down into different areas). 40% of the questioned SMEs knows what is GPP and the existence of national policy on GPP, however they do not seem to know its content. 50% of the SMEs knows what eGPP is only 20% of them knows the national legislation about eGPP. 90% of the questioned SMEs offers green products/ services. The rest 10% is planning to start offering them. However, only 30% of the sample knows the specs required for these products/services. The majority of the SMEs would participate in a eGPP in order to save money and time. The main external barriers to access to GPP identified by SMEs are: the lack of legal experience (30%), the lack of information (30%) and the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations (30%). SMEs would like to receive training on GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level (30%), Manuals elaboration: guides, brochures (by economic sector) (30%), Applicable tariffs (30%), Term obligations (30%), Energy Management System standard: ISO 50001 (30%) and Energy Audit Verification: UNE 216501 (30%).

4. Regional Analyses Cyprus

Regional Analysis for Cyprus Atlantis With regards to the results of the survey carried out in Cyprus, all PAs respondents were aware that there is a GPP policy in Cyprus. However, only the Department of Environment appears to have an in depth knowledge of the policy. The respondents either did not respond or they did not know details about the regional regulation. Respondents appear to be quite familiar with the National e-procurement tool. This is expected since the use of the electronic procurement platform is compulsory for the purposes of publishing public tenders. In general, SMEs appear familiar with the terms of GPP and eGPP. The majority of them were aware of the existence of a GPP and eGPP policy in Cyprus but none of them was able to give more details on their content. The main reasons PAs do not use ePP and eGPP are: the lack of information, lack of experience, lack of time/human and technical resources.

For the SMEs, the main reason for not participating in a GPP and eGPP is the lack of information. Secondary reasons are the lack of interest, of human resources, of time, of financial resources and due to not meeting competition requirements. .

4. Regional Analyses Cyprus

PAs would use eGPP in order to save time and because of flexibility, whereas SMEs would participate in a eGPP mainly if it was the only participation method and in order to save time.

4. Regional Analyses Cyprus The main external barriers identified by PAs in the use of GPP are: the lack of legal experience, the insufficient demand of green products/services, the lack of information and useful tools on Administration side, the long process of bureaucracy and the higher cost of green products/services.

According to the SMEs, the main barriers for using eGPP are: the insufficient demand for green products/services, the lack of information and useful tools on administrative side and the long process of bureaucracy.

4. Regional Analyses Cyprus PAs would like to receive training mostly on: sectorial workshops, identification of specs for green products/services, GPP legal framework at national/regional level, benchmarking and good practices and eco-labelling. The responses received by the SMEs, show a need for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sectorial training'. This can be interpreted as a need for customized training for the needs of each business. Given the answers received by the SMEs throughout the questionnaires, it is obvious that there is unfamiliarity with many aspects of Green Procurement, thus it is logical that training addressing all the specific inquiries of businesses are required.

4. Regional Analyses Castellon (Spain)

Regional Analysis for Castellon (Spain) CCIN of Castellon The results of the survey that was carried out In the region of Castellon (Spain), showed that the majority of the questioned users, i.e., both PAs and SMEs, don't have a specific knowledge on GPP and eGPP nor on their national/regional legislation. 80% of the questioned PAs are not aware of SMEs in their region that offer green products/services; however, they are interested in including green specs in tenders and 90% of the respondents (SMEs) are planning to include products/ services with environmental features in order to save money and time. 30% of the PAs enquired use an e-PP system whereas the rest 30% don't, mainly because of the lack of interest, information and experience. More than 80% of the SMEs have never participated in a GPP, and this is mainly due to lack of information and lack of interest.

4. Regional Analyses Castellon (Spain) The most important reasons pointed out by the PAs for using eGPP are the saving of money, the saving of time, and the environmental commitment of their organisation.

According to the PAs, the most important external barriers faced in a potential/current use of a GPP are: the lack of information & useful tools , the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations and the lack of legal experience. According to the SMEs, the most important barriers are the lack of experience and the bureaucracy.

4. Regional Analyses Castellon (Spain)

Pas would like to receive training on the Identification of specs for Green products and services, and on GGP legal framework. They showed great interest in attending sectorial workshops, whereas they were not very interested in IT tools. In connection to the energy savings diagnosis, most PAs would like to have some analysis about the applicable tariffs and contracted power. Finally, PAs would like to have seminars about eco-labelling and environmental management systems: ISO 14001 EMAS, followed by seminars about green house gases emissions.

4. Regional Analyses Castellon (Spain) SMEs would like to have training on GPP and manuals about this field. In contrast with the PAs, the SMEs consider the training on IT tools very important. With regard to the energy savings diagnosis, they would like to have training on contract conditions, applicable tariffs and contracted power. Finally, SMEs would like to have seminars about energy management systems and the energy audit verification.

4. Regional Analyses Corsica (France)

Regional Analysis for Corsica (France) SIEEP In Corsica island (France), with respect to the terms GPP, eGPP and their national legislation, SMEs and Public Authorities are equally well informed. The public procurement code is known. Almost all of the municipalities mentioned articles of the Public Procurement Code, so they seemed well informed about the National Regulation in France. However, it appears that no public procurement described as 'green' has been organized by the municipalities, whether electronic or not, due to: non-fulfillment of tender establishment requirements, lack of economic/human resources, lack of legal experience and information.

Most of the SMEs questioned do not offer green products and are not planning to do so. Moreover, none of the respondents have ever participated in a (e)GPP, mainly because of: perceived low probability of success, non-fulfillment of tender established requirements and lack of information. They also stated that they would participate in a (e)GPP if this was the only participation method allowed by the procurement entity and in case their organisation has an environmental commitment.

4. Regional Analyses Corsica (France)

The main barriers identified by PAs in the use of eGPP are: the lack of information and useful tools on administration side, the lack of legal experience, the higher cost of green products/services and the insufficient demand for green products/services.

4. Regional Analyses Corsica (France) From the SMEs point of view, the main external barriers in the use of eGPP are: the restrictive criteria that disallow own product from being eligible for consideration, the insufficient demand for green products or services, the higher price of green services/products and the lack of legal experience.

PAs would mainly like to receive training on: Quality Management System and GPP legal framework at regional/national level. Both IT tools for energy efficiency (Consumption and estimation of potential savings simulator, Evaluation report on options for improvement) seemed to be important for them. With regards to training on Energy savings diagnosis: electric bill analysis, they mainly prefer to get trained on Applicable tariffs and Contracted power. Finally, the PAs showed great interest in attend seminars about enterprises certificates and specially about Energy Management System standard. SMEs are willing to receive training on GPP legal framework, quality management systems and manuals elaboration. They showed greater interest in the Evaluation report on options for improvement than the Consumption and estimation of potential savings simulator. Finally, they would also like to attend seminars about Energy Management System standard, Environmental Management Systems and Eco-design Management.

4. Regional Analyses Central Macedonia (Greece)

Regional Analysis for Central Macedonia (Greece) Municipality of Pilea - Hortiatis In the case of the survey carried out in the Central Macedonia of Greece, all the responding organizations (Public Authorities and SMEs) had a basic idea about what GPP is. The only aspect related to GPP that was misunderstood, mainly by the Public Authorities, was the fact that they were not quite sure if the â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? term refers to the type of supply (e.g. supply of recycle bins) or the procedure to be followed for the procurement (e.g. benchmark). Is there a GPP policy in your country?

YES 20%

NO 80%

Although there is no GPP policy in Greece, from the above charts some respondents, from both Public Authorities and SMEs declared that there is a GPP policy in Greece. There is no regional regulation regarding GPP, since there is also no national regulation yet. The respondents from both kinds of organization were aware of the meaning of electronic Public Procurement. The main reasons that have dissuaded SMEs from participating in a GPP until now are the lack of information regarding GPP procedures, the lack of human resources and staff time, and the lack of interest regarding tenders for green products/services. For the PAs, the main reasons for not using GPP policies and criteria are the lack of experience in green public procurement, and the lack of time and human resources needed for such procedures.

4. Regional Analyses Central Macedonia (Greece)

From the charts below, we can conclude that the main reasons for the Public Authorities to participate in an e-GPP are time saving, and the environmental commitment of each Public Authority. On the other hand, for SMEs the most important reason is time saving (and subsequently money saving). SMEs do not give that much importance to e-GPP, and this is due to their environmental commitment; but seek the means to participate in â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? procurement while reducing cost and time delay.

4. Regional Analyses Central Macedonia (Greece)

Bureaucracy is the most significant reason for both Public Authorities and SMEs that hinders the introduction of a GPP in the regular procurement procedures. Nevertheless, there are variations regarding other reasons that hinder the use/introduction of GPP. Regarding Public Authorities other reasons are the lack of information regarding “green” policy and procurement, and the existence of various restrictive “green” criteria that disallow a product/service from being eligible for consideration. Regarding SMEs, main reasons are the lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations, and insufficient demand for green products and/or services.

4. Regional Analyses Central Macedonia (Greece)

Lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations

10% 10%

Bureaucracy, a very long process

10% 10%

20%

Lack of information & useful tools on Administration side

10% 10%

20%

Lack of legal experience

Higher cost of green products or services Overly-restrictive criteria that disallow products from being eligible for consideration Insufficient demand for green products or services

10%

40%

20%

10%

20%

40%

50%

30%

20%

10%

10% 10%

20%

10%

50%

30%

10%

10% 10%

40%

From the analysis, the most popular kinds of training regarding Green Public Procurement is training on GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level (80% for Public Authorities, 30% for SMEs); and seminars regarding environmental certificates such as Eco-Labeling, ISO 14001 EMAS (Environmental Management Systems), ISO 14006 (Ecodesign Management), UNE 216501 (Energy Audit Verification). Moreover, respondents from SMEs also were interested in benchmarking and in participating in best practices events.

4. Regional Analyses Albania

Regional Analysis for Albania University of Vlora According to results of the survey carried out in Vlora (Albania), most of the questioned PAs knew what GPP is; however, they were not sure about the existence and content of the National or Regional legislation about GPP. On the contrary, all PAs knew what eGPP is and were aware of their National legislation. They all stated that they use the National Public Procurement System but none uses Green Procurement Policies during a tendering procedure. On the SMEs side, 50% of the questioned knew what GPP is, and all answered that in Albania there is no GPP policy. On the contrary, all SMEs were aware of eGPP and the National regulation about eGPP; however, they were not informed about its content. Even though all of the questioned SMEs stated that they offer green products, most did not know the requirements of the products/services they are offering. Save time, save money, and gain flexibility are the main reasons for PAs to use eGPP. The main barriers that they face in the use of eGPP are mostly : the higher cost of green products/services; lack of information and useful tools; and insufficient demand for green products/services.

The main reasons for SMEs to not participate in an eGPP are the lack of information, lack of interest, and the low probability of success.

4. Regional Analyses Albania

For the SMEs, the main barriers for participating in an eGPP are mainly the insufficient demand for green products/services, and the higher cost of green products/services.

Both PAs and SMEs stated that they would like to receive training on: the identification of specs for Green products/services; and Quality Management and manuals elaboration. In addition, the SMEs would like to be trained on GPP legal framework at National/Regional level, and via sectorial workshops.

4. Regional Analyses Albania

4. Regional Analyses Bosnia - Herzegovina

Regional Analysis for Bosnia - Herzegovina RAIS The findings of the survey carried out in Bosnia-Herzegovina showed that most of the questioned users (PAs and SMEs) knew, or at least had an overview about, what Green Public Procurement is. However, almost all users were not aware of the National and Regional Regulation in GPP, and this is mostly due to lack of legislation, interest, information and education. Both SMEs and PAs knew - or guessed correctly - what e-GPP is, but they did not know if a National Regulation on electronic Public Procurement exists in Bosnia-Herzegovina; nor did they know its content. Nevertheless, the PAs seemed to have a bit more knowledge on these matters compared to the SMEs. Even though 10/16 questioned SMEs stated that they offer green products and services, only one was familiar with the requirements of the products/services he is offering, whereas the majority of the PAs (10/17) stated that it was not familiar with SMEs that offer green services/products. The main reason that PAs are not using electronic public procurement is mainly lack of technical resources. This is followed by low perceived probability of success, and lack of interest.

For the SMEs, lack of legal experience and lack of information are the main reason that none of the questioned SMEs has ever participated in an electronic format e-GPP. Other almost as important reasons are lack of necessary skills, lack of time, and lack of human resources.

4. Regional Analyses Bosnia - Herzegovina

For both PAs and SMEs, the main reasons for participating in an electronic GPP are, saving time, saving money, and environmental commitment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all equally important. 10

Save time

Flexibility

Save money

The only participation method allowed by procurement entity

Environmental commitment of my organization

Save time 8

Flexibility

Save money

Environmental commitment of my organization

0 1

4. Regional Analyses Bosnia - Herzegovina The most important barriers indentified by the SMEs in accessing GPP are: the higher cost of green products or services, the lack of information & useful tools on administration, the long process of bureaucracy, and the lack of coordination between regional and national PAs.

For the PAs the main barrier for accessing GPP is the lack of information and useful tools on the Administration side; and then follow the lack of legal experience, and the higher cost of green products or services .

Insufficient demand for green products or services 7

Overly-restrictive criteria that disallow products from being eligible for consideration Higher cost of green products or services

Lack of legal experience 4

Lack of information & useful tools on Administration side 3

Problems with potential suppliers 2

Bureaucracy, a very long process 1

Lack of coordination between regional and national public administrations

4. Regional Analyses Bosnia - Herzegovina Regarding the training they would like to receive, the SMEs are more interested in GPP legal framework and manuals elaboration. The PA would also like to receive training on sectorial workshops: necessities & advice. However, it is noted that the PAs show greater interest in receiving training compared to the SMEs.

Training on GPP framework at regional / national

Sectoral workshops:necessities -advice 6

Manual Evaboration: guides, brochures 5

Benchmarking and best practice events 4

Training on Quality Management Systems

Identification of green products specification

0 1

Both SMEs and PAs would also like to be trained on IT tools on Energy Efficiency. Concerning the seminars about enterprises certificates, the SMEs are mainly interested in seminars about Environmental management systems, Eco design management, Eco-labeling and Energy management systems standards; whereas the PAs would like to attend seminars about Eco labeling, Environmental management systems, Eco design management, Energy management systems standards, and Carbon footprint.

5. Regional Comparison

Greece

IPA partners (Albania, Bosnia Herzegovina)

Italy

Islands (Malta, Cyprus, Corsica)

Spain

Indroduction Based on the findings of the Regional Analysis that each GRASP partner composed for his region, five Comparison Reports were produced that summarise and compare these findings. The Comparison Reports cover regions of the same country or different countries that present a common characteristic: Greece, Italy, Spain, MED islands (Malta, Corsica, Cyprus) and IPA partners (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina). Below is given an overview of the conclusions that derive from all five Regional Comparison Reports, the main differences and similarities that were identified among the participating regions, as well as the benefits that these regions could have from GRASP methodology and tools.

5. Regional Comparison

GREECE

Greece

UNIVERSITY OF PATRAS MUNICIPALITY OF SPATA - ARTEMIS MUNICIPALITY OF PILEA - HORTIATIS

Main conclusions In Greek municipalities there is a certain degree of awareness of GPP, and a desire for relevant training and updating that are expected to save time in the long run. More specifically: ยง The Public Authorities (PAs) in the participating Greek regions are aware of Green Public Procurement (GPP) procedures. There is some confusion between GPP and Electronic Public Procurement (e-PP) but the PAs are familiar with the term and the legal framework that governs Electronic Public Procurement in Greece. ยง Both SMEs and PAs are willing to receive training in GPP legal framework regardless of the associated cost within, of course the usual fee structure. ยง The PAs are interested in a regular update on any activity related to progress in Green Public Procurement, expecting that this knowledge will save them time in the long run. ยง In the majority of the tenders, green designation depends on the tender evaluation criteria that each specific tender includes.

Main differences In Greece, regarding the reasons for not using GPP policies and criteria, PileaHortiatis cites the lack of experience in green public procurement, and the lack of time and human resources to undertake such procedures; while in Spata-Artemis municipality the most important reasons are the lack of interest, the lack of information on relevant policies and criteria, and the low participation rate in such procedures.

Main similarities In Greece, there are similarities in the way Public Authorities decide on accepting the green designation in the tendering process. In the majority of the Greek tenders, green designation depends on the tender evaluation criteria that each specific tender includes. This is a typical approach followed by most interested PAs in this country.

5. Regional Comparison Italy

ITALY

APEA SIENA PROVINCE OF PERUGIA MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY ALTO BASENTO (PABBC)

Main conclusions In Italy, the main conclusions were drawn from the regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Basilicata. In particular: ยง In the participating Italian regions, the perception of the usefulness of accessing a website where e-GPP tenders launched by different entities are centralized is common, as all the users consider such a system to be useful, expecting it to save time and to be in line with the environmental commitment of their organization. ยง SMEs believe GPP will increase transparency in the tendering process; and they need to receive GPP legal training; PAs see little demand for GPP now but would like to receive more information and gain more experience in GPP nevertheless.

Main differences In Italy, main differences include the degree to which the various Italian regions are already informed about GPP; the degree of legal expertise; the degree of confidence in the process; and the role of low demand and high cost in restraining the viability of GPP. ยง The main differences in the knowledge about the national regulation, can be found in Tuscany and Basilicata. In the first Region the 70% of the SMEs asserted the inexistence of an electronic public procurement, and in the second region the 80% declared to have never participated and not to be able to do it. ยง In Basilicata the respondents don't believe that the proposed GPP can be useful for PAs to facilitate the GPP process, a sentiment not shared by the other regions. They indicate low confidence in the possibility of reducing bureaucracy and improving the safety and speed of GPP processes by the Public Administrations side. ยง The main external barriers cited by the PAs and SMEs of the three Regions are different as well. In Umbria the survey highlighted that the lack of information is not seen as a real barrier to participate in GPP. For example, the majority of enterprises focused on the lack of legal experience in the field and the nonfulfillment of tender established requirements.

5. Regional Comparison Italy In this region in particular, the common points between SMEs and PAs about the perception of the main external barriers to GPP are the insufficient demand of such products/services, and the higher cost of green products or services in the territory. About the use of Green Public Procurement policies and criteria, in Umbria (but not in the other regions) the 60% of the PAs declared to take them into account. The majority of enterprises focused on the lack of legal experience in the field and the non-fulfillment of tender established requirements.

Main similarities In Italy, SMEs believe GPP will increase transparency in the tendering process; and they need to receive GPP legal training; PAs see little demand for GPP now but would like to receive more information and gain more experience in GPP nevertheless. Specifically: ยง Approximately 70% of SMEs of all participating Italian regions are willing to receive training concerning GPP Legal framework at the regional/national level, to get more information on the benefits of green products and services, on public tenders managed by Pas. ยง SMEs believe that PAs can improve the transparency of the tender process and can be helpful to make market more open to the products/services if these last ones meet or exceed fairly-established technical criteria. Rapidity as well can be improved by the public entities. ยง About the use of Green Public Procurement policies and criteria, demand for participation in a GPP system is very low in all the territories. Neverthelss, all the public entities agreed that there is lack of information, lack of technical & human resources and lack of experience, on which they need to improve.

5. Regional Comparison

SPAIN

Spain

CCI OF TERRASSA CCIN OF CASTELLON

Main conclusions In the examined Spanish regions of Terrassa and Castellon, PAs are better informed than SMEs. The former see an advantage from GPP in time savings, and the latter, in increasing their competitiveness. In particular: § In the participating Spanish regions, the most significant advantage that SMEs consider in relation to electronic public procurement is the savings in time. At the same time, the companies consider that bureaucracy and the length of the procedures in the procurement process are the most significant barriers. § SMEs believe that training in GPP and in e-procurement is needed in order to ensure that small and medium enterprises increase their involvement in these processes. § Public Authorities have developed a better knowledge in GPP compared to the small and medium enterprises, especially in understanding the practical meaning of green public procurement and, more generally, electronic public procurement. § Agreements and organizational structures have already been established, with the expectation to fight the bureaucracy and ease the use of GPP.

Main differences In Spain, certain agreements have already been established for GPP, and these vary by region. In particular, the Generalitat of Catalunya counts with another body in the development of public procurement, the GPP and e-GPP, entitled “Monitoring and Evaluation Office for public Procurement” that reports directly to the Department Chair. The Generalitat Valenciana has a competition agreement assigned by the State Government, called “Contractual Convention remedies with the state administration” for the processing and resolution of appeals, requests for provisional measures and the annulment of the award of certain types of contract.

5. Regional Comparison Spain

Main similarities In Spain, agreements and organizational structures have already been established, with the expectation to fight the bureaucracy and ease the use of GPP. ยง With respect to the PAs, both Catalan and Valencia regional governments have similar organizational structure for public procurement and have a similar level of development. They have created government agencies for the organization, development and monitoring of public procurement, the GPP and the eGPP that respond to a State law, which in turn corresponds to the EU Directive. Smaller local administrations have more difficulty but have the models, guidelines and processes developed by the Provincial Administration and the Regional Administration. ยง With respect to the SMEs, in both regions these do not have a well defined knowledge in the GPP and the e-GPP. There is no overall strategy in small and medium enterprises that would focus on participating in public tenders, either GPP or e-GPP. Enterprises from both regions consider that bureaucracy is the main barrier that an SME must face in order to be qualified for public procurement.

5. Regional Comparison

MED ISLANDS

MED Islands (Malta, Corsica, Cyprus)

IRISS (MALTA) SIEEP (CORSICA) ATLANTIS (CYPRUS)

Main conclusions Additional conclusions are drawn from the results from three MED islands, two of which are also independent nations, i.e., Malta, Cyprus and Corsica (France). From the results of the responses on these islands, § Maltese respondents know what Green Public Procurement (GPP) is. Corsican PAs respondents seem to be more in tune with GPP definition than the Maltese Public Authorities. On the other hand, the Cypriot PAs provided a more general definition to GPP and linked it directly to environmentally-friendly procurement. § With regard to GPP policy, PAs in all three islands are aware of the said policy in their respective country (national legislation) and have a basic knowledge about their respective regulation. Regarding Regional Regulation, none of the Maltese respondents said that there is a Regional Regulation in Malta. All respondents from Corsica said that there is no Regional Regulation in their country whereas respondents from Cyprus did not provide a reply or did not know details about the regional regulation. § Regarding the definition of electronic Public Procurement, both the Maltese and Cypriot respondents defined electronic Public Procurement as a system in which electronic means is used. The majority of the Maltese respondents are aware of the existence of a National Regulation for electronic Public Procurement in Malta and what it states. Conversely, all Cypriot respondents are aware of the existence of a National Regulation for electronic Public Procurement in their country. Corsican respondents have based their replies on Article 56 of the Public Procurement Code of France. §

Maltese Administrations use green Public Procurement policies and criteria, whereas none of the Cypriot respondents makes use of them, mainly because of lack of information; experience in Green public procurement; time/human resources; and technical resources. The Corsican Report shows that no public procurement described as ‘green' has been organised by the municipalities, electronic or otherwise.

5. Regional Comparison MED Islands (Malta, Corsica, Cyprus) Main differences Additional conclusions on differences are drawn from the results from MED islands, i.e., Malta, Cyprus and Corsica (France). In this case, it was expected to have substantial differences since the conclusions relate to different countries. Therefore, inter-country differences were taken into consideration. From the findings, Malta and Corsica (but not Cyprus) indicate a strong commitment to the environment and sustainable development; in addition, Malta focuses on time and money savings, whereas Corsica SMEs are concerned about their clients' base. More specifically: ยง The main reasons for the potential/current use of an electronic GPP in the case of the Maltese respondents are: saving time (70% of the respondents); flexibility (half of the respondents); saving money (most of the respondents) and environmental commitment (most of the respondents). ยง In the case of the Cypriot respondents, only 18% of the respondents have selected environmental commitment as a concern even though the government has specific and strict targets concerning energy performance. This can be due to the fact that the Cyprus Energy Action Plan, enforcing public green procurement is not included in the measures for meeting energy-related targets. ยง In the case of Corsica, green public procurement is strongly perceived as a way to demonstrate the commitment of the municipality in sustainable development, and as a solution to increase the number of SME customers/collaborators.

Main similarities Malta, Cyprus and Corsica all express remarket the need for GPP training. More specifically: ยง Regarding the kind of training that the Public Authorities would like to receive, the Maltese respondents feel the need for the widest set of such training on GPP Legal Framework at regional/national level, sectorial workshops, manuals elaboration: guides, brochures (by economic sector) are quite important and quality Management Systems. Similarly, the Cypriot respondents also feel the need for training. Here, the needs are more focused in the need for GPP training and sector-specific training (Sectorial workshops: necessities-advice) given that this type of training would entail learning on how to deal with green procurement. ยง Cypriot respondents would need to receive training in benchmarking and the identification of specifications for Green products/services. Similarly, Corsican respondents would also like to be given training. Here the need is focused specifically on Quality Management Systems and on the regulatory framework of Green Public Procurement.

5. Regional Comparison

PARTNERS

IPA

IPA partners (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina)

UNIVERSITY OF VLORA (ALBANIA) RAIS (BOSNIA - HERZEGOVINA)

Main conclusions All Albanian respondents had a general knowledge about Green public procurement. However, none of the SMEs was familiar with the GPP policies in Albania, whereas most of the PAs had some knowledge about GPP policies in Albania. Moreover, all respondents were aware of the electronic Public Procurement and were informed about the existence of the national regulation for electronic public procurement in Albania. In Bosnia-Herzegovina, most users do not know the national and/or regional (e)GPP regulations, whereas the PAs seem to be better informed on these matters than the SMEs. In both countries, PAs and SMEs stated that they would like to receive training, in Albania mostly on the identification of specifications and in Bosnia-Herzegovina mostly in GPP legal framework at national/regional level, sectorial workshops (necessitiesadvice), and manuals elaboration.

Main differences Among the two IPA partners, Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the following differences derive from their regional analyses: ยง PAs in Albania are familiar with the National Regulation for a GPP in their country, while the PAs in Bosnia and Herzegovina don't know their National Regulation for GPP, mostly due to the lack of legislation, interest, information and education. Moreover, both SMEs and PAs in Albania are aware of the National Regulation for electronic Public Procurement. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, PAs are a bit familiar with the regulation while none of the responders SMEs are familiar with it. ยง PAs in both countries consider that the main barrier to access (e)GPP is the lack of information and useful tools on the Administration side. In Bosnia-Herzegovina, the lack of legal experience and the higher cost of green products are also considered as important reasons. PAs in Albania, also identified the lack of legal experience and the insufficient demand for green products or services as important external barriers to access GPP.

5. Regional Comparison IPA partners (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina) § The higher cost of green products/services is considered by the SMEs in Bosnia - Herzegovina as the most important barrier to access GPP. In Albania, the main barrier identified by the SMEs is the insufficient demand for green products/services. § In both countries, SMEs have a high need for more information on benefits of green products/services, followed by periodic information about published tenders and security. Moreover, SMEs also consider that PAs could help them in terms of security, rapidity and less bureaucracy. § In Bosnia- Herzegovina, SMEs would primarily like to receive training on GPP legal framework and manual elaboration. In Albania SMEs would also like to receive training on the identification of specifications for Green procurements and on quality management systems. § PAs in Bosnia and Herzegovina would like to receive training on GPP legal framework at national/regional level, manual elaboration and sectorial workshops: necessities and advice. In Albania, the PAs would also be interested in receiving training on the field of identification of green product specifications and on quality management systems.

Main similarities According to the comparison of the results between the two IPA partners, Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the following similarities were identified: § The PAs in both countries, stated that the main reason to participate in an e-GPP would be to save money and time. Environmental commitment is recorded as the third most significant reason. § All SMEs respondents in Albania and most in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer green products/services. Moreover, in Albania, all respondents were offering products that were certified with different certifications (ISO standards); as well as products with no certification. § In both countries PAs and SMEs are willing to receive training. However most of them, apart from the Albanian SMEs, wouldn't pay a fee to receive the training. § The lack of legal experience is the main reason why SMEs do not participate in GGP and eGPP in Bosnia-Herzegovina. In Albania, none of the SMEs respondents have ever participated in a GPP/e-GPP due to lack of information, lack of interest and low probability of success on the basis of experience.

6. Benefits from GRASP

From the findings of the studies that were carried out, a number of benefits are expected to result from GRASP methodology in the participating countries.

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In Greece the GPP methodology will motivate SMEs to develop green products that will become the new standard on the market. New demands from the Public Authorities for green products will lead to a virtuous cycle and thus lead to higher demand for green products/services. This means that GRASP methodology can be seen as a dynamic tool to promote the production of green products, and subsequently boost the regional economies.

Through the development of an advanced green transnational procurement system all stakeholders will benefit from the: transparency throughout all procedures, time savings, energy savings, reduction of the bureaucracy, fast updates, easier way for tender submitting, empowerment of the cooperation between the MED public administrations and SMEs, online supply management system for green procurement processes, wide sharing of knowledge through expertise and best practices, intelligent energy demand-supply balance.

6. Benefits from GRASP

In Italy, the main benefits that each region can draw from GRASP methodology are about the implementation of local/regional environmental policy and the concrete support and the best practices exchange to implement or, at least, to raise awareness on Green Public Procurement by the use of different project tools; such as the targeted seminars, workshops, educational materials, in order to provide information and training on the green procurement processes and criteria. As part of the benefits, the expectation includes an indirect push of the implementation of the national and European GPP policies by the effective involvement of key stakeholders of each region in its project actions.

In Spain, the main benefit is the expected spread amongst small and medium sized companies of the information about the opportunity of highlighting and differentiating their products in front of the administration by incorporating ecological criteria; and the spread of awareness of e-GPP and GPP. The implementation of a “green purchases” plan in Spain entails direct environmental benefits as well as social and economic ones linked to the relevance of the Public Administration as an economic actor, buying and hiring services.

6. Benefits from GRASP With regard to Valencia, the GRASP platform and training materials will improve the knowledge of local PAs in GPP systems and will allow them to be in touch with local SMEs who are developers and producers of green products/services. Now there is no tool that allows this activity. In Catalonia, GRASP will allow the spreading of the relevant information amongst small and medium sized companies about the opportunity of highlighting and differentiating their products in front of the administration by incorporating ecological criteria; and will support the spreading of awareness on e-GPP and GPP.

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In Malta, Corsica and Cyprus, an important role of GRASP project will be to support the business case for green products. It therefore needs to address the issues of operational costs and costs over the life cycle of a product such that it facilitates the demonstration of the financial benefits of green purchasing.

In some cases, the country reports identified bureaucratic burden as well as lack of knowhow with regard to green characteristics of products as deterring factors for public procurers. GRASP addresses the issues of access to relevant general information (regulations, best practices etc) and provides a tool that supports PAs to initially evaluate the feasibility of undertaking a successful Green Tender. As stated by the Corsica Country Report, an easy to use and friendly interface for the GRASP tools will play an important role in its level of use.

6. Benefits from GRASP The main benefits that GRASP can offer to PAs include the provision of information about the green specifications of products and how these could be verified, assessment of green products availability in the market and of their economic aspects, support in preparing GPP documents. For SMEs GRASP will provide access to Green Specifications and information on how companies can fulfill the requirements, and will provide a mechanism for the SMEs to register their Green products in an informal database. This will facilitate greater entry of SMEs in the green procurement market.

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For Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina, taking in consideration the GRASP methodology will make government to assign new law according to Directive 2004/17/EC on procurement. These ones, in the utilities sector are the first legal acts of the European Union in which they mention green public procurement in the context of the possibilities of economic gain. GRASP methodology will make conscious all governments for the importance of the situation due to green procurement. Will be a guideline for all government, to show the obstacles, like costly procedures, lack of practice, lack of products and etcâ&#x20AC;Ś that are evidenced in these countries and that make difficult the green procurement procedures. Also it will be guideline of showing up where to begin, what will be first steps to take and what to change or adopt in public procurement laws due to make them usable for green procurement.

7. Good e-GPP practices

“Public sector procurement” or “public procurement” or “government procurement” are terms used for contracts signed between a supplier and various agencies of the public sector for the purchase, rental and/or leasing of goods. As public sector procurement are considered also the contracts for the installation, maintenance, transfer or other services that are related with the supply of these goods. A public procurement policy should aim at the creation of a transparent and competitive environment that will allow the supply of goods and services, on behalf of public bodies, in a way that ensures the best economic terms. In this context, the adoption, in practice, of electronic public procurement systems contributes to greater transparency in public money expenses, creation of an integrated market, open access to bidding information, faster processing and evaluation of tenders, and reduction of bureaucracy and costs for the acquisition/supply of products/services. If the use of an e-procurement system is widespread, it can save up to 5% of the public expenditure and up to 50-80% of transaction costs for both the buyers (Public Sector) and their suppliers.

7. Good e-GPP practices

In recent years, following the electronic Public Procurement, particular emphasis is placed on Green Public Procurement. Green Public Procurement (GPP) is defined in the Communication (COM (2008) 400) “Public procurement for a better environment” as “a process whereby public authorities seek to procure goods, services and works with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle when compared to goods, services and works with the same primary function that 1 would otherwise be procured.” GPP is a voluntary instrument, and this means that Member States and public authorities can determine the extent to which they implement it. Public authorities are major consumers in Europe: they spend approximately 2 trillion euros annually, equivalent to some 19% of the EU's gross domestic product. By using their purchasing power to choose goods and services with lower impact on the environment, they can 1 make an important contribution to sustainable consumption and production. Green purchasing is also about influencing the market. By promoting and using GPP, public authorities can provide industry with real incentives for developing green technologies and products. In some sectors, public purchasers command a large share of the market (e.g. public transport and construction, health services and education), 1 and so their decisions have considerable impact. In order to promote green procurement, the EU voted for relevant Directives and Regulations, and set the target that the 50% of the public procurement by 2010 should be only green. Although this goal was not achieved, significant progress was made. Green procurement is a common practice in many countries of Northern Europe, and the majority of the Member States has already prepared and submitted their related National Action Plans.

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/what_en.htm

7. Good e-GPP practices Benefits

The benefits associated with GPP are not limited to environmental impact, but can include everything from social and health to economic and political benefits. Environmental benefits GPP allows public authorities to achieve environmental targets GPP sets an example to private consumers GPP raises awareness of environmental issues Social / health benefits GPP improves quality of life GPP helps establish high environmental performance standards for products and services

Economic benefits GPP saves money and resources when life-cycle costs are considered GPP provides incentives to industry to innovate GPP can reduce prices for environmental technologies Political benefits GPP is an effective way to demonstrate the public sector's commitment to environmental protection and to sustainable consumption and production

Barriers

However, a number of key challenges to the implementation of GPP have to be addressed. These challenges include:

§ § § §

Lack of political support Green products are perceived to cost more Lack of practical tools and information The need for systematic implementation and integration into management systems § Lack of training § Lack of co-operation between authorities § Limited established environmental criteria for products/services 2

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/benefits_en.htm http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp/barriers_en.htm

7. Good e-GPP practices

MED & eGPP It is generally accepted that Public Procurers of the MED area lack legal information and training towards the implementation of (e)GPP. Cooperation amongst the authorities and experts in public procurement is considered necessary in order to successfully transfer expertise to public procurers. The exchange of good eGPP practices amongst public procurers in the EU is a good way to transfer this knowledge from the more developed in eGPP issues countries, to the ones that are still in an early stage GRASP project, in an attempt to collect eGPP practices that have been tested and evaluated positively by its participating members, has created a database of good eGPP practices. This database constitutes part of GRASP knowledge DB, and primarily addresses the needs of Public Authorities. Supported by it, PAs can enter their own practices and, in this way share their experiences with other Pas. The inserted good eGPP practices are organised in the DB according to certain key elements: ¤ Good practice name ¤ Country ¤ Good practice Procurers/Suppliers ¤ Good practice Contractor / Authority ¤ Good practice context ¤ Good practice green requirements ¤ Good procedure followed ¤ Good practice result ¤ Good practice scope for improvements The user who inserts a good practice has the ability to edit it; other users can search for good practices using key words, and can download/print a specific practice in the format of their choice/preference (pdf, excel, csv).

7. Good e-GPP practices Example of a good eGPP practice An example of good eGPP practices included in GRASP DB is the one by Consip S.p.A. presented below. Consip S.p.A. is a public stock company owned by Italy's Ministry of the Economy and Finance (MEF) that was designated as the supporting agency of the Rationalisation of Public Spending Program. Consip is engaged in the strategic conception and realisation of procurement processes, by searching the market for the best innovative solutions for public administration needs. Consip also works as a Central Purchasing Unit at national level: it plans, manages and awards tenders on behalf of public administrations.

Name of the good practice

Country

Procurers and suppliers

Contracting authority

• Consip’s Framework Agreement Desktop Outsourcing

• Italy

• Italian Public bodies • more than 5 suppliers (Italian companies) in the scope of the Framework Agreement to provide services about Desktop outsourcing

• Consip S.p.A owned by Italy’s Ministry of the Economy and Finance (MEF)

¦ CONTEXT The Program for the Rationalization of P.A. Purchases, initiated in 2000, is based on the use of ICT technology applied to the provisioning processes of public administrations with the aim of rationalizing the expenditure in goods and services of public administrations as well as simplifying and increasing the speed and transparency of public provisioning procedures.

7. Good e-GPP practices ¦ GREEN REQUIREMENTS & QUALITY STANDARDS REQUESTED

Award Criteria

Technical Specs

The main feature of this example is the focus on energy efficiency and rationalization of IT infrastructure, reduction of staffing costs, and routine maintenance (upgrades and repairs of PC systems and servers). These requirements are met by buying an integrated service that assures an economic and ecological goal, rather than by buying a product.Green criteria are included in the contract as technical specifications and award criteria.

• Compliance with the minimum environmental criteria set by the Italian Ministry of Environment Ministerial Dec. 22 Feb. 2011 (Official gazette n.64 - 19 March 2011), following the Italian National Action Plan on Green Public Procurement (GPP). Examples: o Compliance with Energy Star for computers and displays version 5.0, and Energy Star for printers version 1.1; o Maximum limit of noise emissions for computers (=<40 dB(A) in idle mode and =<45 dB(A) in active mode), laptops (=<35 dB(A) in idle mode and =<40 dB(A) in active mode) and printers (Lwad =< 75 dB (A) in active mode); o Maximum limit of weight for laptops and tablet-notebook; o Use of 100% recycled paper for printers and multifunctional devices; o Double-side printing set by default.

¥ Reduction of energy consumption below the Typical Energy

¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥

Consumption (TEC) set by Energy Star for computers version 5.0. Points are awarded according to the reduction of energy consumption achieved by the products that will be leased (TEC value): - 0,2 point awarded (90%>=TEC value > 80% of the TEC requirement) - 0,6 point awarded (80%>=TEC value > 75% of the TEC requirement) - 1 point awarded (TEC value <= 75% of the TEC requirement); Products must be designed for disassembly, and plastic parts heavier than 25 gr. must be marked; Reduction of substances emissions (TVOC, ozone, dust) for printers and multifunctional devices; Reduction of noise emissions for printers beyond the limits set in the technical specifications; 90% (weight) of case parts (both plastic and metal parts) must be separable and ready for recycling; Other environmental criteria related to weight, battery efficiency of laptops can be awarded by the procurement body during the specific procurement procedure. The standard ISO 9001 is required for suppliers.

7. Good e-GPP practices

consolidated market analysis

adoption of minimum environmental criteria

correct evaluating process

search and identification of additional award criteria

study of regulations

¦ PROCEDURE FOLLOWED In the last few years, with the aim of reducing the environmental impact of the goods and services used by public authorities, the number of green initiatives launched by Consip has markedly increased. The main environmental goals that have been set involve the following sectors:

§ § § §

Energy: Helping to create energy savings, promote the use of renewable sources and green fuel. Goods and Services: Abiding by standards set in the use of materials harmful to public health and the environment Recycling: Promoting the separation of waste through the purchase of recycled products and materials Waste: Promoting among Public Authorities the separation and collection of recyclable waste.

The steps of a greening procedure are:

§ § § §

study of regulations adoption of minimum environmental criteria when issued by the Ministry of the Environment search and identification of additional award criteria using Type 1 ecolabels and life cycle assessment methodology a consolidated market analysis. It is important to constantly consolidate results and involve all stakeholders in terms of objectives and achievements;

7. Good e-GPP practices

a correct evaluating process that consists of checking that the product awarded has all the required characteristics, and the supplier gained extra points proven by: o A test report from a recognised body (e.g. body accredited to issue test reports according to standard ISO 17025 and accredited to required test) demonstrating that the criteria are met; and one of the following; either o A correct application of the principle of equivalence with reversal of proof borne by the supplier that asks for an equivalent means of proof; or

Results

o A relevant Type 1 ecolabel fulfilling the criteria required as presumption of conformity.

• Owing to the purchasing of energy efficient PC Desktop, Notebooks and Printers the first result is the savings of €4 Mln per year, corresponding to 11,000 Tons of CO2 emissions avoided per year • The processes of dematerialization for every order performed allowed for unitary savings of €42,000 • Reduction of paper costs for a savings of 15-30% of the total costs • Supplier is more willing to offer durable products so as to minimize assistance and maintenance costs, and for this reason Public Bodies are equipped with high quality products.

¦ PROS AND CONS/ SCOPE FOR IMPROVEMENTS One of the most important and complex issues for a correct and successful implementation of green criteria in a tender is the technical verification process. In particular, it is critical that the product awarded is compliant with technical requirements set out in the tender documentation and offered by the supplier. Another critical issue is a consolidated supply analysis. Including green criteria means that the market meets PA innovation needs, and is ready to anticipate them. Risk management is also critical: Too innovative green criteria can increase the risk of a “desert” tender. Less innovative green criteria can generate a less competitive and stationary market, leading to a stagnation of environmental quality of the products offered. For addressing this, it is important to constantly consolidate results and involve all stakeholders in terms of objectives and achievements to assure the good quality of supplies and to collect data as the basis for the next supply analysis.

7. Good e-GPP practices

Too innovative green criteria can increase the risk of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;desertâ&#x20AC;? tender

Less innovative green criteria can generate a less competitive and stationary market, leading to a standardization of enviromental quality of the products offered

7. Good e-GPP practices

8. GRASP Events

Introduction The events implemented during the life cycle of the project have been conceived as strategic tools and activities to support the main objective of GRASP consisting in “strengthening green procurement processes in wider MED region, with emphasis on energy (e.g. renewable sources, “green” materials), through the use of an online supply management system; supporting actions aimed at highlighting green energy solutions, which strengthen the capacity of local/regional authorities to use and set quality green requirements; and sharing expertise and best practices amongst the authorities in the project, and supporting activities of dissemination/information to stakeholders (including SMEs)”. The events include targeted seminars and workshops. The targeted seminars are classified as theoretical and practical. The theoretical seminars aimed to raise awareness in the topics that concern GRASP project: Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy Sources, green electronic - Public Procurement, green products and green criteria. The practical seminars aimed to train the participants in using the tools that were developed by GRASP and include the Transnational Mediterranean Network (TMN); GRASP Databases, i.e., Knowledge and Solution DBs; and GRASP eGPP tool. For both seminars the target groups were (a) SMEs offering EE/RES solutions and (b) Public Procurers.

8. GRASP Events The seminars were organised in all GRASP participating regions from 8 MED countries: Greece, Italy, Spain, France, Malta, Cyprus, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina. For the purposes of the seminar, specific educational and training material was developed and translated into all project languages. The material has been uploaded and is available for downloading at the GRASP website: www.grasp-med.eu. The workshops were organised in the beginning of the project lifetime and their purpose was to educate the partners in topics of EE, RES and eGPP that are relevant to the project. During the workshops, experts on these topics from all countries participating in the project shared their knowledge with the partners. This was a great opportunity for the partners to learn what applies in other countries in terms of energy and e-GPP, and to identify similarities and differences across the MED region.

The closure of GRASP was celebrated in Patras, Greece in May 2015. During the Final Conference of GRASP the results of the project were presented, and many interesting opinions, practices and experiences were shared amongst the speakers and the participants, who came from several MED countries. The participants exchanged their knowledge on each country's state of the art as well as on current / future action plans in the topics of EE/RES, e-GPP and relevant legislation. Finally, in June 2015, in a Capstone event of the MED Programme, 14 MED projects with activities related to the Energy sector gathered in Brussels and presented their achievements during the international workshop: â&#x20AC;&#x153;INNOVATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY EFFICIENCY SOLUTIONS IN MEDITERRANEAN REGIONS AND CITIESâ&#x20AC;?. The workshop was organised in the framework of the European Union's Sustainable Energy Week 2015. GRASP was there as a participant and as a co-organiser of the International Workshop.

8.1.1. Theoretical Seminars

Introduction The theoretical seminars were organised in the end of 2014 by the GRASP project partners, in order to raise awareness of the participants regarding Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources methodologies and technologies, green electronic-Public Procurement and its legislation in European, national and regional level, as well as green products and green criteria (certificates). The target group of the seminars were mainly Public Procurers and SMEs who are active in the field of Energy. The main objective of these seminars is related to the enhancement of the skills and capacities of all the actors involved in the procedure of public procurement related to renewable energy sources and energy efficiency. For the purpose of the seminars, an educational material was developed by the CCI of Terrassa. The topics that were covered by this material derived from the survey that was carried out in order to identify the needs of the users. The educational material was adapted by each partner according to their national legislation of the covered topics, whereas particular emphasis was given to the main needs of the targeted groups in their region. The overall estimation from the evaluation of the seminars by their attendees, was that the seminars reached a high organizational and technical /scientific level and they were able to provide participants with technical knowledge on how energy efficiency may be attained. In addition, it made them aware of GRASP project and methodology; how GRASP can help both SMEs and Public Authorities to reach GPP criteria targets and increase the efficiency of procurement processes.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

University of Patras

Greece Title: “Technologies and applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, with hands on use of tools” Date & Location: 10th of October 2014 Chamber of Achaia, Patras.

Objective: Inform the participants on the EU legislations and existing technologies in the fields of Energy Efficiency (EE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES). Facilitators: 1) Mr. George Stavrakakis, Dr. Chemical Engineer, scientific collaborator at CRES and coordinator of MED project REPUBLIC-MED 2) Mr. Panayiotis Zervas, Dr. Chemical Engineer and Director of research and development of the company “ENTRADE” 3) Mr. Athanasios Argyriou, Professor and Chairman of the Physics Department of the University of Patras, as well as Head of the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics. Attendees: representatives of: the public sector, specifically staff of departments of Technical Services and Supplies Departments the private sector - Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of the wider area of Achaia, who are active in the field of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources by providing services and products Civil/ Chemical/ Electrical/Mechanical Engineers - freelancers, graduates and students - who are interested or specialised in the topics of EE and RES. The participants showed great interest in the topics of the seminar and in particular in the practical part, where they had the chance to test/apply what they were taught. They were, also, very satisfied with the educational material which was produced by the facilitators for the purposes of the training seminar.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

Municipality of Spata - Artemis

Greece Title: “Technologies and applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, with hands on use of tools” Date & Location: 14th of November 2014 City Hall of the Municipality of Spata Artemis.

Objective: Inform the participants on the EU legislations and existing technologies in the fields of Energy Efficiency (EE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES). The seminar had a theoretical character and aimed to raise awareness and train the stakeholders on energy issues. Facilitators: 1) Mr. George Stavrakakis, Dr. Chemical Engineer, scientific collaborator at CRES and coordinator of MED project REPUBLIC-MED, educated/presented to the participants the session of “Energy efficiency in buildings” 2) Mr. Panayiotis Zervas, Dr. Chemical Engineer and Director of research and development of the company “ENTRADE”, educated/presented to the participants the session of “Renewable Energy Sources”. Attendees: The seminar was attended only by public operators, who showed great interest in the topics of the seminar. They were very satisfied with the way the different aspects of EE and RES were presented/covered and the educational material which was produced by the facilitators for the purposes of the training seminar. The material was also distributed in electronic format to the participants at the end of the seminar.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

Municipality of Pilea - Hortiatis

Greece Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Technologies and applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, with hands on use of toolsâ&#x20AC;? Date & Location: 17th of October 2014 City Hall of the Municipality of Pilea - Hortiatis

Objective: Iprovide participants with the basic methods of using technologies and applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, with hands on use of tools.

Facilitators: Mr. Athanasios Argyriou, Professor and Chairman of the Physics Department of the University of Patras, as well as Head of the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics. Attendees: The participation was very strong, as there were 42 participants, mostly representatives of Public Administrations (55%), who use by legislation an electronic public procurement system, and private operators (SMEs ). The participants received training in using calculation tools of buildings Energy Assessment, elements of the physics of the structured environment, and Energy planning optimisation.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

Province of Perugia

Italy Title: “Green Public Procurement (GPP) and the electronic market of the PA (E-Procurement)” Date & Location: 20-21 of May 2014 - Perugia, Italy.

Objective: Provide participants with the basic elements characterizing the GPP system and criteria and its legislative framework; the main existing tools at National level and the related compulsory e-market and its operating procedures. Facilitators: 1) Mr. Ferdinando Gemma (CONSIP) with the role of teaching and giving technical support to PAs to implement properly MEPA system and the Framework Agreements (Convenzioni) managed by CONSIP on different goods and services 2) Ms. Lidia Capparelli (CONSIP), GPP expert at national & international level 3) Ms. Federica Lunghi, responsible for the creation and use of a regional green certification for PAs and companies. Attendees: The first day of the seminar was targeted to PAs and was attended by 27 participants ( Municipalities within the Province of Perugia, Bursar's office of the Province, Umbria Regional Education Office, Consip); employees of the purchase department or officers as purchase managers. All participants showed great interest in the presented topics, although most of them were more concerned about the mechanism of the eprocurement system and the process of buying at the lowest price; rather than implementing a most economically and green tender. Another problem raised, was the additional expenses PAs have to cover, to hire an external commission to provide them with expertise in GPP criteria. The second day of the seminar was targeted to SMEs and was attended by local green companies or traditional companies interested in “greening” their production process, products and services. Most of the participants expressed their concern that nowadays local green companies are not aware of the LCC calculation and how to prepare an offer with environmental performance and economic considerations.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

APEA Siena

Italy Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gli Acquisti Verdi come strumento per il contenimento dei costi degli appalti per le Pubbliche Amministrazioniâ&#x20AC;? Date & Location: 8 & 29 of October 2014 Colle di Val d'Elsa 7 & 28 of October 2014 - Siena 6 & 27 October 2014 - Torrita di Siena

Objective: Show the use of GPP as tool for cost reduction. The event aimed to contrast the stereotype of the green purchases as useful for the environment but expensive. Facilitators: APEA staff in collaboration with: 1) CONSIP (National Agency for GPP) 2) Centro Tecnologico di Torrita, Mate srl 3) SIENA Chamber of Commerce 4) CREA (Research Center for Energy and Environment) Attendees: Northern and Southern Municipalities of the Province of Siena, Province of Siena and Province of Perugia. All participants, stated that the event was interesting and acknowledged the importance and the value of the covered topics. There was a clear and high request by the participants for a general follow-up on e-procurment not focused on GPP, but on how to use the electronic platform. This demonstrates that GPP is not still a priority. The priority is still represented by the correct use of electronic tools, which became recently compulsory in Italy.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

MCAB (PABBC)

Italy Title: GRASP seminars organised by Mountain Community ALTO BASENTO (PABBC): “L’appalto green: nuovi orizzonti (Green Procument: new senarios)” “L’appalto green: nuove opportunita di mercato (Green Procument: new market opportunities)” Date & Location: 23 & 24 of February 2015 - Potenza, Basilicata, Italy

Objective: Inform the participants about the local, national and European legislation related to Green Procurement and eco-labels; how “green criteria” can influence and even change the results of procurement process. Facilitators: 1) Mrs. Pasqualina Schettino, lawyer 2) Mr. Vito Ramunno, procurer - civil servant of the Municipality of Trivigno 3) Mr. Maurizio Argoneto, ICT expert of Publisys S.p.A. 4) Mr. Rocco Di Tolla, procurer - civil servant of the Municipality of Calvello 5) Mr. Massimo Ianniciello, project manager of APEA Siena 6) Mrs. Maria Pina Triunfo, EU projects manager of Link Consulting s.r.l. Attendees: The first day of the seminar was targeted to Public Authorities of the Basilicata Region and in particular to the Municipalities that are part of the MCAB (PABBC). The event was really appreciated and MCAB enforced its credibility and reputation as a PA that is able to innovate and lead the way to improve the process related to public system. The second day, was targeted to the SMEs of the Region. Special focus was given to the opportunities e-GPP tool offers to the private sector. In south Italy the State is the most important client. However, according to the Italian law, for purchases under 40.000 euro, a public tender is not compulsory. For this reason the SMEs are not willing to understand the complex procedure of public procurement.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

CCI of Terrassa

Spain Title: “Seminar on Green Procurement and Energy Efficiency technologies” Date & Location: 3, 5, 10 &12 of November 2014 Terrassa, Spain.

Objective: Inform the public tools for the preparation of a “green” electronic tender.

Provide potential bidders with knowledge about the processes of buying and procurement, as well as the criteria that have to meet in order to participate in green tenders. Describe energy efficient technologies in lighting and air conditioning, as well as processes for the renovation of buildings. Analyse the inclusion of renewable energy in buildings and current legal framework.

Facilitators: 1) Mr. Jose Enrique Vázquez, Biology Degree 2) Mr. Lluís Cuevas, Agriculture Engineer 3) Ms.Patricia Piqué, Physical Sciences Degree 4) Mr. Oriol Carrasquer, Electrician Engineer Attendees: The course target groups were: purchasing managers responsible for public administration and SMEs who want to know the (e) procurement processes and in particular the processes of green public procurement.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

CCIN of Castellon

Spain Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Green Public Procurement and Energy Efficiency technologiesâ&#x20AC;? Date & Location: 21 of November 2014 Castellon, Spain,

Objective: Present among companies and institutions the results of GRASP Project and the benefits that public procurement can provide as a new market, specifically online procurement, with sustainable criteria, also called green procurement. Facilitators: 1) Francisco Garcia, Head of Entrepreneurial Development Area 2) Dolors Valls, Head of Administration and Accounts 3) Victoria Rubio, in charge of Industry and Environment department 4) Berta Clausell, in charge of Press and Communication 5) Jose Antonio Martinez, Documentalist Attendees: The participants were mostly SMEs, but also the University JaumeI's Green Office and the Regional Administration, among others. All the participants were greatly satisfied with the seminar, although they would like to receive more practical training.

8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

SIEEP

Corsica (France) Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Achats publics ecologiquesâ&#x20AC;? (Ecologic public purchasing) Date & Location: 24 September & 29 October 2014 Borgo (Haute Corse), France

Objective: Inform municipalities which adhere to SIEEP about GRASP project, its goals and activities and to sensitize them on Green Public Procurement.

Facilitators: 1) Jean-Charles Laurelli, Director of SIEEP 2) Vincent Valliccionni, Technician Attendees: The first day was attended by 62 Mayors of small rural municipalities of HauteCorse, adhering to SIEEP, which means that SIEEP is empowered by them to maintain and develop their lighting facilities. All Mayors were aware of the French legislation regarding governing public procurement; as well as the existence of many platforms that allow electronic Public Procurement. However, they stated that they would like to receive more information on green criteria and green indicators. At European level, they did not show great interest in looking for providers outside Corsica or France in general. The second day of the seminar was attended by 4 SMEs which manage phases of construction of the rural electricity distribution network and their activity is exclusively focused on the public lighting sector. The participants showed great interest in GRASP eGPP platform and willingness to test it by developing a green tender.

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8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

IRISS

Malta Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seminar on Green Procurement and Energy Efficiency technologiesâ&#x20AC;? Date & Location: 9 &10 of September 2014 Floriana, Malta

Objective: Provide participants with the opportunity to learn more about the GRASP project, its methodology and how the development of this e-procurement tool will be of benefit to public organisations, authorities, ministries, and small and medium enterprises. Facilitators: 1) Hon. Prof. Edward Sciluna, Minister of Finance 2) Mr Daniel Grima from the Ministry of Finance 3) Mr Carlos Tabone from the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Change 4) Hon. Leo Brincat, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Change 5) Hon. Dr. Stefan Buontempo, Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government 6) Ms. Branica Xuereb, GPP Officer, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Change Attendees: The seminars had participants from different government entities that deal with procurement, government contracts and tendering processes, as well as a number of SMEs that operate in the Energy industry. Most of the attendees stated that the seminars provided them with a good understanding of some of the essential technical knowledge related to alternative energy and the importance of keeping up-to-date with new environment friendly products in the market. SMEs also provided positive feedback and in general, they commented that they were now more aware of green procurement regulations and criteria used.

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8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

University of Vlora

Albania Title: “EE/RES technologies and EU/national/regional legislation” Date & Location: 23 & 24 September 2014 Tiranna, Albania

Objective: Inform the participants about new technologies of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Sources, as well as the National and European legislation of electronic green Public Procurement, relevant to these topics. Facilitators: 1) University of Vlora “Ismail Qemali” project team: Evelina Bazini, Filloreta Madani, Flora Qarri, Djana Ilia, Aurela Ramaj, Ervis Mocka, Nikolin Hasani, Yllka Arapi 2)With the collaboration of: Entela Kaleshi, external expert of UVlora Agerti Galo, Public Procurement Directory, Ministry of Defense of Albania Gjergji Mocka, IT expert, Public Procurement Agency of Albania Attendees: 17 participants attended the seminar; 11 of them were SMEs and the rest representatives of public institutions, local government units and General directorates that take part in the procurement process and are responsible for environmental policies. The participants found the presented topics and the educational material that was distributed to them, very interesting. At the end of the seminar, a discussion session took place, amongst the participants and the facilitators.

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8.1.1 Theoretical Seminars

RAIS

Bosnia - Herzegovina Title: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Green procurement and energy efficiency technologiesâ&#x20AC;? Date & Location: from 11 till 14 of November 2014 Administration Center of the City of East Sarajevo, East Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Objective: Inform the participants on EU legislation and technologies in EE and RES, and to present the GRASP project results, including those from regional and comparative analysis, and the databases. The seminar had a theoretical character and its aim was to raise awareness and train the stakeholders on energy issues. Facilitators: 1) Mr. Bojan Zdrale, Bachelor of economic, certified trainer for public procurement by 2012 2) Mr. Danijel Mijic, Doctor of technical science in electrical engineering 3) Mrs. Ranka Gojkovic, Master of mechanical engineering-sustainable energy and environment protection 4) Mr. Dusan Djurdjevac, electrical engineer, certified international ISO trainer by International Organisation for Standardisation in the field of Energy Efficiency-Energy management system Attendees: The seminars were attended by almost 100 participants. The topics addressed public administration and public institution on the first two days, and the SMEs on the last two days. The first target group of seminars included participants from public administration and public institutions. The second target group included SMEs, mostly experts in building construction, insulation and LED lighting. The seminars were interactive and all participants had time for discuss and share their experience on the covered topics. The participants were very satisfied with the way the aspects of EE and RES were presented/covered as well as with the educational and training material produced by the facilitators.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars

Introduction Near the end of the project, the partners organised the 2nd round of GRASP seminar, which were practical. The main objective of these seminars was to train the participants on how to use the tools that were developed by GRASP project and include: the Transnational Mediterranean Network, GRASP Databases and GRASP e-GPP tool. The target group of these seminars were mainly SMEs and Public Procurers. The educational material that was used for the purpose were the handbooks of GRASP tools. More specific, the following documents were shared to the attendees: GRASP Databases Handbook, GRASP e-GPP user manual and the GRASP project user guide; which provide a step by step use of the tools. All seminars were interactive, as the participants had to test GRASP tools with a hands-on practice.

Greece

University of Patras

The practical seminar entitled: “Training with hands-on practice on GRASP project “green” tools: TMN (Transnational Mediterranean Network), GRASP DBs and supporting eGPP tool” was organized by University of Patras on the 29th of May 2015, in Patras, Greece.

The main objectives of the seminar were to inform the participants about the Greek e- Public Procurement system and platform, the EU and National legislation, to give an example of how new and green technologies are cost efficient and lead to the reduction of energy consumption, to present and promote GRASP achievements in the fields of eGPP and EE/RES, to give the opportunity to the participants to train on their own GRASP green tools through a hands-on practice.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars For the purposes of the seminar two speakers were invited: 1) Ms. Anastasia Zacharopoulou, Head of the Department for Technical Specifications of Goods - Unit of Market Analysis and Technical Specifications - General Directorate of Public Procurement - General Secretariat of Commerce and Consumer Protection, informed the participants about the National (Greek) Electronic Public Procurement System 2) Mr. Petros Kontouzoglou and Mr. Konstantinos Triantos, representatives of KAFKAS S.A., presented an Energy Efficiency Methodology which uses power monitoring.

For the presentation of GRASP results and the training of the participants the following project members were invited: 1) Altin Mahilaj IT expert of the project partner PP12-University of Vlora 2) Vassilios Tsetsos from Mobics and subcontractor of project partner PP8-Atlantis. The seminar was attended by representatives of: (a) the public sector; (b) the private sector - Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs); (c) Engineers - free lancers, graduates and students - who were interested or specialised in the topics of the seminar; (d) project partners.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars Municipality of Spata-Artemis organized on the 15th of May

Greece

Municipality of 2015 the practical seminar entitled: “Educational session for Spata-Artemis the use for GRASP e- GPP tool for the Green Electronical Procurements”, in Spata-Artemis (Greece).

The main objective of the seminar was to inform the participants for the latest developments and the prime results of the project, part of which are the development of the e- GPP tool and the TMN database. This seminar was the second of the two seminars that were organized in the framework of GRASP project. It had a practical character and aimed to present and train the stakeholders- future users – on the use of the tools developed.

Facilitators were: 1) Professor Y. Stephanedes, Project Coordinator, Director of the Environmental Engineering and Transportation Division, and of the ITS Program at the Department of Civil Engineering of the University of Patras 2) Mr. K. Matsoukas, Mobics representative, software developer, external consultant of ATLANTIS Consulting Cyprus, lead partner of e- GPP tool development 3) Mrs E.R. Chasapidi, representative of the external advisor of the Municipality of SpataArtemis.

The seminar was attended mainly by representatives of the public sector, staff of departments of Technical Services, Supplies Departments and other departments who were interested or specialized in the topics of EE and RES. There were also representatives from the private sector as well as operators with specialized experience (ICT, informatics etc.). The participants showed great interest in the topics of the seminar and in particular in the practical part, where they were showed how to register and how to use the tools.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis organised a practical seminar

Greece

Municipality of on 30th of April 2015 entitled: “An ‘Intelligent’ System for the Pilea-Hortiatis Supply and Demand of Smart Energy Solutions”.

The main purpose of the seminar was to introduce the GRASP's developed tools, the electronic Green Public Procurement tool (e-GPP) and the transnational Mediterranean Network (TMN).

The participants were informed about the possibilities of these two platforms and they had the opportunity to test the platforms on real time. They created their own TMN accounts, browsed its content and tested/tried its functionalities. Concerning the e-GPP tool, the attendees apart from getting to know the tool, they also tested its usefullness by preparing, launching and evaluating the proposed green products for a hypothetical tender. According to the participants, the objectives of the seminar were covered adequately and most of the attendees were significantly pleased.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars

Italy

Province of Perugia

On the 19th of May 2015, Province of Perugia organised their second GRASP seminar, whose aim was to illustrate practically the use of the GRASP e-GPP tool, Databases and TMN platform.

The tools were mainly presented to local companies interested in increasing visibility and their chances to offer services and products in EE and RES sectors. Also, the local PAs, such as the Municipalities of the Province were invited to receive training on GRASP tools in order to prepare a green tender. The educator of the seminar was Eng. Luigi Trollini, member of GRASP technical team and in charge of the development of GRASP Databases.

Italy

APEA-Siena

The practical seminar â&#x20AC;&#x153;Acquisti Verdi e sistemi volontari di controllo delle emissioni e del consumo di energia (Green Purchases and voluntary control systems of emission and energy consumption)â&#x20AC;? was organised by APEA Siena on the 8th of May 2015.

The purpose of the event was to help the participants understand that Green Public Procurement is economically beneficial as well as environmentally friendly. The tools presented satisfied that purpose. The event aimed to contrast the stereotype of the green purchases as useful for the environment but expensive, since the lowest cost procedure is often more expensive than a Life Cycle Cost.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars The main topics discussed were the calculation of a product Life Cycle Cost, by examining specific examples (light bulbs, paper), the advantages and benefits of Life Cycle Cost evaluation in Green Public Procurement. However, the low particopation in the event, proves that most PAs and SMEs are not aware of the importance and the benefits of the eGPP. APEA will work to raise awareness of the involved stakeholders on the significance of these topics.

Italy

M.C.A.B (P.A.B.B.C)

The MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY Alto Basento (PROGRAM AREA Basento, Bradano, Camastra), organized two seminars on the 23rd and the 24th of February 2015. Both seminars were theoretical and practical.

The first seminar directed to the public procurers and civil servants of the Municipalities that are related to the CMAB (PABBC). The seminar was organized in collaboration with APEA Siena. The main topics of the event were related to the local, national and European Legislation linked to the green procurement, the eco labels and a practice action (workshop) related to the e-procurement. The attendees participated actively to all the actions.

The second seminar directed to SMEs and to representatives of the private sector in general. The aim of the event was to show the new opportunities of the e-public procurement that improve the transparency and celerity of the process among PAs and SMEs with a strong consciousness of the green value. The main topics of the event were related to the green label present in Europa and how this kind of â&#x20AC;&#x153;green criteriaâ&#x20AC;? can influence and change the results of a procurement process, which in Italy is mostly related to the rule of the lowest price.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars

Spain

CCIN of Castellon

The Camara de Comercio, Industria y Navegación de Castellón organised on the 30th of June 2015 a practical seminar entitled “Plataformas Compra y Contratación Pública Verde con criterios medioambientales”, in Camara de Comercio, Industria y Navegación de Castellón.

The main objective of this seminar was to present among companies and institutions the results of the European Project GRASP.

Facilitators were: 1) Francisco Garcia, Je fe de Area de Desarrollo Empresarial 2) Victoria Rubio, Responsable Departamento Industria y Medio Ambiente.

The participants were mainly SMEs. The benefits that public procurement can provide to SMEs as a new market, and specifically online procurement with sustainability criteria-also called 'green procurement'- was positively received by the attendees. Their capability in green procurement and technologies for online procurement were strengthened through this training activity.

Spain

CCI of Terrassa

The practical seminar entitled: “GRASP: PRACTICAL SEMINAR” was organized by Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Terrassa on 25th of June 2015, in Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Terrassa headquarters.

The event had as objectives to show the Grasp project results and have a feedback from their future users (target groups), SMEs and Public Administration.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars Facilitators were: 1) Anna Pajaron, International projects Manager 2) Marianella Pereira, Quality and Environmental Manager. The participants were SMEs and PAs. There was a general satisfaction with both online platforms (TMN and eGPP). Some of the attendees valued the possibility of using eGPP tool to compare different brands of the same green product, which is extremely useful in the case of more standard products like, Led lighting, hardware, printers, etc. Public Administration declared high interest in using the eGPP tool for future procurement processes.

IRISS

Malta

On the 25th of May 2015, IRISS organised the practical seminar entitled: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Practical Session on GRASP e-gpp toolâ&#x20AC;?, in Valletta (Malta).

The aim of this practical seminar was to provide participants with the opportunity to learn more about the GRASP project, and the electronic green public procurement tool.

The seminar had participants from government entities that deal with procurement, government contracts and tendering processes. Participants were representatives of: 1) the Ministry of Finance 2) the Department of Contracts 3) the Ministry for Sustainable development, the environment and climate change.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars Although Malta already has a very good e-tendering system, the grasp methodology helps develop tenders through TIPS and to establish green criteria. Most participants commented that the seminar provided them with a good understanding of some of the essential technical knowledge related to alternative energy and the importance of keeping up-to-date with new environment friendly products in the market. Overall the seminar had a successful outcome as it provided participants with a technical and practical overview on how grasp e-gpp tool can be utilized. In addition, the seminars provided an updated outlook on the Grasp project and how GRASP can help Public Authorities to reach GPP criteria targets as well as increase the efficiency of procurement processes.

SIEEP (Corsica)

The practical seminar was organized by SIEEP on 26th of June 2015, in Calvi (Haute Corse).

France

The main objective of this seminar was to inform municipalities which adhere to SIEEP about GRASP project, to present the e-GPP tool, its purpose and goal, and to train participants to use it.

Facilitators were: 1) Jean-Charles LAURELLI, Director of SIEEP 2) Vincent VALLICCIONNI, Technician. Among the participants were 15 mayors and elected members of the rural municipalities of Haute-Corse. The participants found the topics of the seminar, as well as the functionalities of GRASP tools, interesting and understanding.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars

Atlantis

Cyprus

The GRASP technical seminar was organized by Atlantis Consulting and the Department of Environment of the Cyprus Government on the 29th of June 2015. The seminar took place at the conference center of the Department of Environment.

The main focus of the seminar was green e-procurement and the results of the GRASP project.

The presentations and the discussion that followed were related both to theoretical and practical aspects of green e-procurement, Grasp electronic tools and the future applications of GRASP results. The attendees were very interested in the results of the project and had suggestions about future improvements that can make GRASP tools more useful for the local conditions of Cyprus.

Albania

University of Vlora

On the 9th of May 2015, the University of Vlora organised the practical seminar entitles: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Technical applications of GRASP methodology (Databases, TMN network, tool) and information system for the publication of notices in electronic public procurement procedures and submission of statements of spent procurement in Albaniaâ&#x20AC;?.

The main objective of the seminar was to present and show practically how GRASP tools: databases, TMN network and e-GPP service, can be used in the electronic public procurement system of Albania.

The seminar was attended by 21 participants in total,10 representatives of public institutions and 11 SMEs. The public institutions were local government units and General directorates that take part in tenders and /or are responsible for environmental policies under these local government units.

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8.1.2 Practical Seminars The SMEs were companies in the field of construction, energy, food & beverages and non-profit organizations, based in Tirana, Durres and Vlora, Himara. The seminar had an interactive character, all participants had the opportunity to test GRASP tools, discuss and share their experience on the topics of the seminar. The seminar was evaluated by the attendees as a positive event and as a first step to promote the use of certified green products.

BosniaHerzegovina

RAIS

The practical seminar entitled: â&#x20AC;&#x153;GRASP Green Public Procurement in Bosnia and Herzegovinaâ&#x20AC;? was organized by RAIS on the 19th of June 2015, in East Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The main objective of the event was the dissemination of GRASP project results and the discussion about the current situation of e-GPP in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The event was attended by representatives of: (a) Public Administrations - related to public procurement and energy departments; (b) Electrical/Mechanical Engineers professors, graduates and students - who are interested or specialized in the topics of EE and RES. The participants were very satisfied with the way the topics of the seminar were presented and with the educational material that was distributed.

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8.2 Workshops

Introduction The basic idea of the workshops was the creation of an international environment in MED regions to exchange ideas and practices, promote mutual learning and create a common methodology and model for green public procurement. The workshops were addressed mainly to the partners of the project as well as the public who was interested in the topics of EE, RES and e-GPP. For this reason these events were organized in conjunction with the partnership's transnational meetings. In total, four workshops were organised throughout GRASP project. The first Workshop was organised in conjunction with GRASP 2nd Transnational st meeting by GRASP Partner ERDF PP5 MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY Alto Basento ( P R O G RA M A R E A B as e n t o , B r a dan o , Camastra, in Potenza, Basilicata, Italy , from the 5th till the 7th of September 2013. The afternoon sessions of these three days were dedicated to the workshop activities, with speeches by external guests. In the last afternoon meeting, a special workshop/visit took place in Matera - designated by Unesco a World Heritage Site - in order to discover its energy efficiency and conservation applications.

1 Workshop

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8.2 Workshops The workshop was focused on GPP best practices (especially in the Energy sector) at national and regional level. The expertise and speakers involved were: 1) 2) 3) 4)

representatives of the Regional Government of Basilicata Professors of Agriculture/Environment University General Managers of companies active in the Energy sector CNR researchers and consultants in marketing.

All participants were interested in the main idea of GRASP project: the development of a green public procurement tool, , not just as a local solution but also as a transnational cooperative system amongst different actors and countries.

2nd Workshop

The second workshop was organized in conjunction with the 3rd transnational meeting of GRASP project in Bastia, Corsica, France. It took place on the 27th February 2014.

The event tackled two issues: (1) the societal, environmental and energy challenges of public lighting and (2) multiple actors, strategies and the common goal of energy performance in the sector of building renovation and retrofitting.

The workshop was led by speakers from the public and the private sector interested in green issues: 1) Mr Didier Libert, Director of Arts & MÎštiers 2) Mr Gaetan Lebodic, Engineer at Arts & MÎštiers 3) Mr Sebastien Alfonsi, Operational Director of Soleco 4) Mr Jean-Charles Laurelli, Director of SIEEP.

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8.2 Workshops The workshop was attended by the project partners and mayors of some communities that are adherent to SIEEP, committed in energy transition through the modernization of their public lighting system.

3rd Workshop

The 3rd workshop, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Technologies and applications of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources with the usage of on-site energy toolsâ&#x20AC;?, was organised in conjunction with a GRASP technical meeting ,on the 29th and the 30th of September 2014, in the Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis, Thessaloniki, Greece.

Facilitators were: 1) Mr. Robert Kaukewitsch from European Commission's Environment Directorate-General 2) Mr Thanos Papotis from Euroconsultants, who presented the strategic project of MARIE (MED) project and the energy Performance Contracting for Energy Saving Interventions which was developed through the MARIE project 3) Mr Dimitrios Stimoniaris from the Technical Educational Institution (TEI) of Western Macedonia, who presented the project PEEBPE and the Energy Audits in Public Buildings 4) Mrs Thaleia Bogdanou from Anatoliki enterprise, who presented the project Buy Smart+ Special guests from other projects and experts on technologies of EE and RES, presented their work and knowledge with the participants. The participation was very strong (35 participants) and the participants were very interested in the discussed topics.

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8.2 Workshops

4th Workshop

The fourth workshop, “E-procurement of the Public Administrations: an opportunity or an obstacle for GPP?”, was organized on the 5th of November 2014 by the Province of Perugia in Rimini-Italy, in the framework of the Ecomondo Fair.

The main goal of the event was to create a constructive debate on available eprocurement tools developed by some Central purchasing bodies - at the light of the spending review rules (in Italy) and of the new Directive 24/2014/CE - about the assessment of economic and environmental costs of products and services (Life Cycle Cost approach).

The Facilitator was an Italian expert in GPP who manages a commercial portal on GPP. The speakers were experts in GPP at national and international level and the interventions were organized in cooperation with Green Proca - Green Public Procurement in action- co-funded by the Intelligent Energy Europe. Other CONSIP representatives, experts in the e-procurement system of Italy, were also present at the workshop. Finally the workshop intended to demonstrate GRASP tools and methodology and promote the market of eco – sustainable products/services of Italian companies operating in the Energy sector.

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8.3 Final Conference The final Conference of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;GRASP: Green pRocurement And Smart city suPport in the energy sectorâ&#x20AC;? project, took place at the Patras Palace Hotel in Patras on 28 & 29 May 2015. The opening of the event was signalled by Professor Yorgos Stephanedes of Civil Engineering Department of the University of Patras and project coordinator of GRASP, and by the General Secretary of Chamber of Achaia, Mr. Theodoros Tsoumpelis.

The first day of the event included 27 presentations on Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy Sources, Green Electronic Public Procurement and European / National Legislation. The presentations were made by representatives of the private and public sectors of the European countries participating in the project, such as the Ministry of Finance of Malta, the Syndicate Intercommunal of Electrification and Public lighting of the Upper Corsica, the Technological Institute of Energy of Valencia-Spain, the Environmental Department of Cyprus, the INU - National Institute of Urban Planning of Italy, and the University of Maribor, Slovenia. Notable amongst the presentations made is the presentation by Mr. Dimitrios Sofianopoulos, European Commission DG ENERGY Policy Officer, who presented an Integrated Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan to support the Research, Innovation & Competitiveness pillar of the Energy Union Strategy. The aim of the SET Plan that was adopted in 2008, and its updates throughout 2015 were mentioned as well as the EU priorities. With emphasis on Research, Innovation and Competitiveness, he presented the 4 core priorities of the Energy Union Research & Innovation strategy as well as the next Initiatives to promote the Energy research strategy. Particular emphasis was given on the need for the EC, the member States and the private sector to work together towards achieving the goals and challenges that have to be faced. On the second day, GRASP technical seminar took place. In the first part of the seminar two presentations took place: (a) The National Electronic Public Procurement System (NEPPS) was presented by Ms. Anastasia Zacharopoulou, Head of the Department for Technical Specifications of Goods from the General Secreteriat of Commerce and Consumer Protection and (b) an innovative Energy Efficiency Methodology was

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8.3 Final Conference presented by Mr. Petros Kontouzoglou, representative of KAFKAS S.A.. During the second part of the seminar, Professor Y. Stephanedes and GRASP project coordinator, presented the results of the project, and members of the project's technical team presented GRASP tools. The event closed with a training seminar, with hands-on practice on the tools developed by the project: databases for Public Authorities and SMEs, supporting tool for the preparation of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? public tender issued by the Public Entities (eGPP tool), and the Transnational Mediterranean Network - TMN. The event was attended by more than 100 people, including representatives of the public and private sectors who are involved in energy and supply issues in the countries participating in the project.

Outcome

During the two days of GRASP Final Conference many interesting opinions, practices and experiences were shared among the speakers and the participants. The participants exchanged their county's state of the art and current / future action plans in the topics of EE/RES, e-GPP and relevant legislation.

The main outcome of the event was that, even though many techniques and projects are implemented throughout the Mediterranean region, aiming at the reduction of energy consumption and carbon footprint by using smart and sustainable methodologies/technologies; in order for these actions to be more efficient, all participating bodies and end users have to join forces and establish a strong collaboration. It is generally acknowledged that progress has been made and awareness has been raised on e-GPP, but it is also essential for the EC, the member States and the private sector to work together by collecting all experience, expertise and tools developed until now, in order to achieve more concrete and effective results towards Horizon 2020. GRASP project can contribute to this joint action by offering its green tools.

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8.4. MED - EUSEW2015 Conference GRASP project, in cooperation with EMILIE project and the JTS of MED programme coorganised a European conference, “Innovation for renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions in Mediterranean regions and cities, an overview of archieved results”, in the framework of the European Sustainable Energy Week 2015, on the 18th of June in Brussels.

Amongst European regions, the Mediterranean area has great potential for integrating renewable energy and achieving lower energy efficiency levels. In the period 2007 – 2013, the MED Programme has actively addressed these concerns throughout the activities developed by 28 transnational cooperation projects operating in 13 countries. Mediterranean regions and cities have been developing capacity to increase use of renewable energy and tackle the energy efficiency challenge through innovative and sustainable solutions, boosting new economic opportunities.

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Objective

8.4. MED - EUSEW2015 Conference

The main objective of the workshop was to give a complete and accurate overview of what has been accomplished in terms of implementation of technical solutions and harmonization of standards, with a look on future steps. It was the occasion to illustrate the main results obtained by 14 energyrelated projects co-financed by European Regional Development Funds (ERDF), within the framework of the EU Mediterranean programme. A substantial part of these projects supported Mediterranean SMEs that are active in the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency fields, and acknowledged them as key actors in the process of fostering the low carbon strategy with a bottom up approach.

The results produced so far integrate elements such as tools for energy performance; tools for green procurement; development of databases, assessment methods, platforms and clusters; good practices identification and transfer; pilot activities and monitoring; training materials production; engagement of civil society through PPPs among others. The workshop was the right place for DG ENERGY, DG REGIO, the European Investment Bank, the Covenant of Mayors, EASME, MED & INTERREG representatives, to discuss about future funding opportunities for investing in RES technologies, energy efficiency and sustainable transport, contributing to achieving a more resource efficient Europe.

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9. GRASP tools 9.1 TMN (Transnational Mediterranean Network) http://www.grasp-tmn.eu

GRASP TMN aims to establish communications across stakeholders, public agencies and experts in the fields of EE & RES. It fosters support for Public Procurement solutions, including EU and national legislation, green criteria, good practices of e-GPP. It also provides communications to strengthen performance of piloting and mainstreaming into binding policy via SEAPs at the regional level.

TMN basic functionalities

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9.1 TMN http://www.grasp-tmn.eu

Members and benefits Public Administrations (PAs) can use TMN for collecting meaningful information on the latest technical developments that could be implemented, in terms of EE/RES, eGPP, green criteria, EU/national legislation. TMN is linked to e-GPP service that supports PAs in preparing a green tender. Public procurers (PPs) can contact directly TMN members, and request technical support by experts in the preparation of a green tender; as well as receive guidance on tender's terms of reference and evaluation of offers. PAs can also get informed about the EU legislation in order to prepare a tender in accordance to EU directives.

Private companies (SMEs) can use the TMN to be informed about the tender processes across countries, and provide information on the energy solutions they offer by uploading their catalogues, and sharing their news. This way, companies can promote their green products and EE/RES technologies, and widen the range of their green clientele. Through TMN, SMEs can identify the needs of public procurers (PPs) to offer innovative energy solutions. This enhances the green products industry, and helps balance an efficient demand-supply relationship in the Energy sector. It also supports mainstreaming eGPP into regional policy.

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9.1 TMN http://www.grasp-tmn.eu

TMN current members (161)

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9. GRASP tools 9.2 GRASP Databases

http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

Two databases were developed in GRASP: 1. Knowledge Database for SMEs: It includes the offered knowledge by the SMEs in Energy Efficiency (EE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES), and the major options of products/services in the market. 2. Solution Database for PAs: It includes the needs for solutions by PPs in the energy sector.

The databases are based on a common list of EE/RES categories and key elements. Both are completely updatable and modular. They can be expanded without modifying their structure, but simply by inserting proper records and adding new categories, subcategories, types and subtypes. The only constraint is that each product that the user enters has to belong to an existing category. Below are listed the categories of the two databases and their key elements.

Î¨ Energy Efficiency (EE) o Public Lighting o Building renovation & retrofitting o Building climate control o Heating and cooling efficiency o IT equipment

Î¨

126

Renewable Energy Sources (RES) o

Solar energy

Wind energy

Geothermal energy

9.2 GRASP Databases http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

Key elements Environmental criteria Energy performance Key technologies Health Waste Emissions

• Useful economic life (LCC) • Operational Cost • Investment cost

Create company profile, including green certifications of the company.

Answer environmental questions that define “green” profile of company.

Basic functionalities

Knowledge DB for SMEs

• • • • •

Financial considerations

Insert products and services provided by the SME in the specific categories, along with their basic technical specifications and key elements (green criteria/certifications) that constitute their "green" character. Choose whether products details (e.g. price) can be visible to other SMEs.

View, edit, delete your inserted products and add provided services.

Search by (sub) category for other products/services in the market, offered by other SMEs.

Search for green criteria that apply for each EE/RES category.

Search for open tenders that are uploaded by PPs in the e-GPP tool of GRASP.

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9.2 GRASP Databases http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

Basic functionalities

Solutions DB for PPs

Create profile by adding the green certificates of the public authority.

Answer environmental questions that define the “green” profile of the PA.

Search for products/services by EE/RES category.

Compare products/services search results according to their technical specifications and key elements (green criteria/certificates).

Search for key elements by EE/RES category that can be used in a tender preparation.

Search for good e-GPP practices applied by other PPs.

Insert good e-GPP practices according to your experience.

Access GRASP e-GPP tool for preparing a green tender.

GRASP DBs current users (86)

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9.2 GRASP Databases http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

Key elements (Solutions DB)

Products (Knowledge DB)

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9. GRASP tools 9.3 GRASP e-GPP tool

http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

GRASP online e-GPP tool functionalities

GRASP e-GPP tool is tightly integrated with GRASP DBs (Knowledge and Solution DBs). It is addressed to PPs and can be accessed via TMN, and GRASP Solutions Database. Its aim is to facilitate PPs in drafting a new tender, emphasising the Green Specifications of the procured products.

¥ WEB Site that provides access to the tool functionality, as well as authentication control and linking/ redirection to the databases and their WEB interface. The tool also supports PPs to publish a single WEB page with information on a new tender.

¥ Tool section that supports browsing and searching on the contents of the library with green specs of products and sustainability issues.

¥ Facility that allows searching a catalogue of product suppliers to identify the suppliers that fulfill certain green procurement criteria as these are input by the PAs for a new procurement of green products/ services.

¥ Searching the Solutions database to extract all relevant specification for a given category of product/service to be procured.

¥ Producing a standalone document of: o Green specifications that the new product/service should fulfill. o List of suppliers that can fulfill the specs. o Indicative budget of the procurement based on market prices.

¥ For PAs, searching and identifying offered products/services (i.e. from the “Suppliers Knowledge database”) which satisfy certain input green criteria and product/service specifications.

¥ Creating a draft tender document, the Tender Information Package – TIP, in a format editable with standard text editing tools (e.g. Microsoft Word).

130

9.3 GRASP e-GPP tool http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

TIP (Tender Information Package) is used in preparing the final tender document and contains:

General info on the tender to be prepared: Title, related GPP categories, dates, etc.

Green Specifications Description of the products/services to be procured Technical and Green specifications for each product to be procured Green criteria (mandatory or optional) to be satisfied Optional services required (maintenance, warranty, etc.)

Potential suppliers and complying products Retrieved from the GRASP Dbs Compliance is deduced automatically based on the Category/Type of the product and the Green Criteria

A TIP can be exported as an RTF document for further editing (by users that will prepare the final tender) with common text editors.

The list of potential suppliers allows for an initial estimation of the tender sizing (in terms of market prices).

In case green criteria are too strict, the system proposes “relaxation” options.

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9.3 GRASP e-GPP tool http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

The TDT (Tender Description Tool) allows Public Authorities to fill in mandatory information related to a tender and export it in various formats. This input data complements the green specifications and the Tender Information Package (TIP) produced and managed by the GRASP eGPP tool.

The two above tools, TDT and eGPP, are integrated to provide a unified online user experience and manage (create/edit/delete/export) public tenders consisting of: I) general data and tender information in any project language, ii) green specs, iii) nongreen specs.

The user can also select his language of preference and all form filed labels are automatically translated to the language selected. Currently the following languages are supported: · Bosnian · English

· Greek · Italian

· French · Spanish

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9.3 GRASP e-GPP tool http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

On the â&#x20AC;&#x153;tender non-green specificationsâ&#x20AC;? tab, the user can fill in all information that are related to the non-green specification of the tender. The attributes are free to name and the values are also free to define (no restrictions apply). The user can optionally associate the Tender Description to an existing Tender Information Package. A Tender Description can be associated with a TIP in order to be able to export the tender description in the same document with the rest TIP data. Hence, once correlated, the Tender Description Export functionality allows for exporting: a) general tender information b) non-green specifications c) the full set of data associated with the TIP.

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9.3 GRASP e-GPP tool

Main Contributions of GRASP e-GPP tool

http://www.grasp-egpp.eu

¥ ¥ Helps Helpsthe theuser user to to collect collect text textextracts extractsto tobe beused used in the description of

the TIP thegreen greenspecifications specifications of a TIP ¥ Sources extractsare: are: ¥ Sources for such such extracts

o Generic products productsdescriptions descriptions(without (without reference to to vendors) vendors) o o Documents stored storedininthe the Library of tool: the tool: eco-label o Library of the eco-label PDFs, PDFs, Green Green specifications, EU GPP criteria for specific categories, etc. specifications, EU GPP criteria for specific categories, etc. ¥ Collection ¥ Collection of of extracts extracts is is supported supported by a powerful full text text search search

mechanism mechanism ¥ The easily copied/pasted copied/pastedininthe theprocured procuredproduct product ¥ Theextracts extracts can can be easily

specifications specifications ¥ ItIt helps ¥ helps to to associate associate (at an early tender preparation preparation phase)

Specifications Specificationsto toProducts Productsavailable available in the market. ¥ This on the the Criteria values values ¥ Thisisisperformed performedbased based on

o Every Every product producthas hasspecific specific Green Criteria it satisfies o Green Criteria thatthat it satisfies (e.g.,(e.g., ecoeco-label guidelines etc.) label guidelines etc.) o Every Every product product specification specification has has specific specific(minimum) (minimum)criteria criteria to be o satisfied by byprocured procuredproducts. products. ¥ The can provide provideaalist listof of registered registeredcomplying complying ¥ Theassociation association can

products productsand and an an estimation estimation of of the the tender tender price range. range. ¥ The linked to to other other tender tender ¥ The exported exported TIPs TIPs could be linked

preparation/publication preparation/publicationplatforms platformsininthe thefuture. future.

134

9. GRASP tools 9.4 GRASP evaluation tools

The e-GPP tool offers PPs the opportunity to evaluate the solutions that derive from their search, using the evaluation tools in the “Help” menu. In particular, three tools are available for the user to be downloaded as excel files: one for the public lighting category (Public lighting renovation tool), one for the building renovation and retrofitting category (Building material evaluation) and a Life Cycle Cost (LCC) tool.

¤ Public Lighting Renovation Tool The purpose of this methodology and tool is to assist PAs in renovating their lighting network to achieve different and contradictory goals:

Τhe methodology that was developed aims to:

Improve or maintain visibility: have a similar or enhanced perception and experience of the place lighted up Save energy Reduce public lighting overall cost

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Guide the PPs investment choices Give a rough estimation in terms of energy and money savings as well as CO2 emissions reduction Be user friendly, maintainable and adaptable to every country member of the GRASP project.

9.4 GRASP evaluation tools The research showed that LED technology is the most appropriate and cost/energyefficient one to substitute current technologies. Therefore, the tool that was developed in GRASP calculates the annual energy and CO2 savings a PP can achieve by upgrading the current public lighting system with LED technology. For this calculation the following inputs are required:

Country under study. Many variables are attached to this choice, such as: Cost of labor, cost of electricity, CO2 electricity content Annual hours of operation of the system to be renovated

Luminaire technology Luminaire power Number of luminaires involved Price of current system lamp Time taken to change a lamp Possible rebate on the LED system Possible subsidy.

These parameters impact the cost analysis, savings calculations and solutions recommended.

Preliminary Financial analysis

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9.4 GRASP evaluation tools 造 Building material evaluation tool

The developed tool aims to assess the ecological aspects of the materials that will be used for the renovation/retrofitting of a building. This will include: (a) the definition of the green criteria and (b) the development of an assessment methodology that will be applicable in all European countries.

The key factors (technical characteristics) that were considered in the assessment methodology are: Density, Thermal Conductivity (k), Specific Heat, Thermal Capacity (Thermal Mass), U-Factor (U), Thermal Resistance (R-value = 1/U), Thermal Mass, Thermal Lag (Time Lag), Life time, Embodied energy, Non Renewable Energy, Emissions, Evaluation of the Resources and Waste.

The next step was the definition of the methodology which is used to evaluate each factor. For this study the choice has been made to evaluate and mark each parameter in order to obtain a global mark over all parameters. Each parameter was evaluated on a scale of 1-5, where 5 was the highest grade corresponding to ecological products. The less ecological the product is, the lower the grade will be, with lowest mark equal to 1.

The scale was developed to assure a good disparity between the different levels. The global assessment mark of a material is obtained by the average of the different marks. If the global mark is higher than 3 the mark is A; between 2.5 and 3 the material is marked as B; from 2.5 to 2 is C; from 2 to 1.5 is D; and under 2.5 is E.

Almost 100 materials were examined with the developed methodology in order to assess the ecological aspect of materials. Precise and complete data are necessary for assessing the different materials. The assessment could be completed by GRASP study of the recycling process, in order to assess the waste recycled in each country. The proposed method can also be used for evaluating other materials, apart from the ones examined in the framework of GRASP.

137

138

hard particle panel bitumen linked fiber panel cement linked fiber panel

beam solid softwood beam solid hardwood softwood lathing hardwood lathing plywood Oriented Strand Board Medium Density Fiberboard soft particle panel

900

300

1200

300

1200

300

900

800

1 0.8 0.9

1700 1800 1600

600 800 700 500

0.2

650

600 800 700 500

0.29 0.2 0.91

1000 650 1800

800

0.44

1200

800

1.32

2000

600

1.15 1.15 1.9

1700 1800 2400

600

1700

1.15

0.141 0.135 0.141 0.152 0.153 0.132 0.196 0.118 0.083 0.128

0.135

0.588 0.444 0.563

0.308

0.29 0.308 0.506

0.367

0.66

0.676 0.639 0.792

0.676

1.042

0.825

m²/s

λ/ ρC J/m²Ks½

(λρC)½

Diffusivity Effusivity

1700 1800 1600

650

1000 650 1800

1200

2000

1700 1800 2400

2400

2000

KJ/m³K

ρC

1000 1700

J/kgK

Thermal capacity

2400

2.5

1.65

W/mK

Thermal Specific conductivi heat ty

2.5

2400

2000

kg/m³

Density

[2000 to 2200] 2000 2400

kg/m³

Density

Portland cement 900 to 1900 compression 1700 screed cement screed 1700 hollow blockwork 1800 concrete bloc 2400 (heavy) concrete bloc 2000 (halfweight) concrete bloc 1200 (lightweight) full clay brick 1000 hollow clay brick 650 calcium silicate 1800 brick cellular concrete [600 to 800] block 650 cement mortar 1700 bastard mortar 1800 tile fixing mortar 1600

reinforced concrete (slabs) reinforced concrete (heavy charges)

weak concrete

STRUCTURE

Materials and components

150 200 220 50

200

150

20 20 20

10 10 25

100

100 10 100

100

130

100

μ (dry)

Steam diffusion

50 70 90 30

10 10 10

5 5 5

60 5 60

μ (wet)

Steam diffusion

1.292 0.8 0.8 0.8 5.15 2.85 2.85 1.4 3.49 1.52 1.38 24.9

> 50

> 50 > 50 > 50

> 50 > 50

30 30 30 30

> 50

30.4

41.6

39.9

39.5

24.6 23.6 42.3 36.4

23.6

24.6

3.78 1.292

> 50

0.96

> 50

0.374

0.61

> 50

NRE

21.6

19.9

12.7

13.19

14.3

3.28 2.71 8.9 13.8

2.7

3.2

1.31 1.29

3.25

2.58 2.58 1.28

4.94

0.75

1.088 0.8 0.75

3.5 1.088

0.89

0.56

0.351

production productio n MJ/kg MJ/kg

Embodied energy

> 50

year

Lifetime

71%

48%

32%

36%

13% 11% 21% 38%

11%

13%

86% 93% 0%

93%

91% 91% 91%

96%

94%

84% 100% 94%

93% 84%

93%

92%

94%

0.164

0.109 0.109 0.144 0.165

0.109

0.127

0.196

0.188

0.188 0.188 0.177

0.188

0.201

0.196

0.201

0.177

MJ/kg

disposal

0.88

-0.06

-1.68

-0.09

-1.27

-0.98 -0.98 -1.29 -1.25

-1.36

0.2 0.19 1.1

0.411

0.238 0.238 0.13

0.429

0.12

0.17 0.13 0.12

0.83 0.17

0.134

0.11

0.05

kg CO2 eq/kg

production

0.113

0.00747 0.00747 0.0991 0.114

0.00747

0.00495

0.00953

0.00897

0.00867 0.00867 0.0088

0.00897

0.00935

0.00953

0.0104

0.0088

kg CO2 eq/kg

disposal

production

0.00809

0.00928

0.00188

0.00198

0.0022 0.0022 0.00175 0.00338

0.00082

0.00036 0.00029

0.00075

0.00064 0.00064

0.00262

0.00028

0.00306 0.00041 0.00028

0.0013 0.00306

0.0003

0.00021

0.00019

1E-08

7E-08

5E-08

6E-08

0.00015 0.00015 0.00012 3E-08

0.00006

0.00003 0.00001 0.00001

0.00004 0.00004 0.00004

0.00001

8.5E-06 0.00001

0.00004 8.5E-06

0.00001

kg SO2 eq/kg kg H2C2 eq/kg

production

Embodied Greenhouse Greenhouse Acidification Tropospheric energy gas gas ozone

From recycling

Naturals, renewable Naturals, renewable Naturals, renewable From recycling

Naturals, renewable

Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable Naturals, non-renewable

Naturals, non-renewable

Ressources

Large

Large Large Large Large

Large

Large Large Large

Large

Large Large Large

Large

Large Large Large

Large Large

Large

Amount avaible

non-recyclable

recyclable

non-recyclable

recyclable recyclable recyclable non-recyclable

recyclable

Synthetic

recyclable recyclable recyclable

recyclable

recyclable recyclable recyclable

recyclable

recyclable recyclable recyclable

recyclable recyclable

recyclable

Waste type

9.4 GRASP evaluation tools

9.4 GRASP evaluation tools 造 Life Cycle Cost (LCC) tool LCC is a semiautomatic tool that supports calculation of Life Cycle Cost (LCC) of the offered solution (product), aiming to point out the difference between a decision based solely on price, and on more complete criteria. In most cases, PPs prefer the most economical offer, i.e., the one with lowest cost of goods/services purchase. However, often (but not always), the product with the lowest price is not the most cost-efficient, since the total lifetime cost will be higher compared to a "green" product, which is usually more expensive to purchase.

Its function is based on the following key costs of a product: (1) purchase price; (2) useful life (operational cost through its lifetime); (3) maintenance cost; (4) electricity cost (energy consumption) and (5) CO2 emissions

Three main uses of the LCC tool support the user in making specific evaluations of products. First, the user can easily see the absolute value of the LCC of the green product. This can be seen, whether there are two products or a single product. Second, the user can evaluate the difference between the cost of keeping an existing product, and substituting it with a new product. In this case, price doesn't need to be considered because it is a comparison of two products from different 00 time periods with different performances whose prices depend on the circumstantial and temporal nature of the market. For this reason, examining the price is not useful. Third, the user can evaluate the LCC of two similar products with comparable performance. This allows for a more informed decision to be made, and is the main purpose of this tool. This use shows easily the differences between a lowest price evaluation and a Life Cycle Cost evaluation.

The tool is useful for the comparison of a large variety of products. With this tool, the users can visualize the economic and environmental benefits of their choices. It is easy to use, but it is also very powerful. At this point, the only missing component is the waste disposal, which is not yet included owing to range of computation methods, depending on materials, location, and other factors. PA staff can utilize this LCC tool to reduce costs within the organization, or it can be used within a Sustainable Energy Action Plan (SEAP) as a way to reduce energy consumption and the emission of greenhouse gasses. All GRASP tools are online and accompanied by their online user guides for the convenience of the user. 139

9.4 GRASP evaluation tools

All GRASP tools are online and accompanied by their online user guides for the convenience of the user.

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10. Pilots

Introduction GRASP eGPP tool was tested by the partnership through pilot and test actions. In particular, four partners carried out pilot actions: Province of Perugia, IRISS, Municipality of Spata-Artemis and SIEEP, whereas seven partners carried out tests that were simulations of already completed tenders of their entities. Each partner selected a specific EE/RES category of GRASP DBs to test. Notably, PABBC and Atlantis conducted a transnational test, thus providing added value to the testing of the tool. The results of the pilots/tests were evaluated through the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) tool which was developed by APEA Siena. This tool was mainly designed to compare two similar products, i.e., one with a lowest up-front price and the other with a sustainable lowest price (green product). In addition, two other functionalities that the LCC tool provides are (a) the calculation of the absolute cost of a new product by analysing its lifetime cost and (b) the valuation of a new substitute product, which is based on examining the savings produced by this product. Having completed the evaluation, the winning product can be compared to others, in order to choose the best option based on the LCC. The aim of this tool is to show that the misunderstanding that green products are more expensive is often false, especially in long-term projects. The following tables list the involved partners as well as the foreseen tests or pilots they had to conduct.

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142

• RAIS

• University of Vlora

• Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis

• CCIN of CASTELLON

• 10 SMEs / IT sector • 10 SMEs / IT sector • 10 SMEs / EE in buildings

• Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis • University of Vlora • City of East Sarajevo

• 10 SMEs / Renewable Energy

• 10 SMEs/Solar Panels' sector

• Municipalities of Trivigno, Vaglio di Basilicata; Brindisi di Montagna

• Mountain Community ALTO BASENTO (PABBC) in cooperation with ATLANTIS

• 10 SMEs/ EE in buildings

• CCIN of Castellon

• Municipality of Spata-Artemis

• 10 Companies/ Public Lighting

• 10 SMES / Renewable Energy

• Municipality of Saint-Florent

• SIEEP

• 10 SMEs/ IT sector

Number/Type of SMEs involved

• Municipality of Rubi

• Malta Government

• IRISS

• CCI of TERRASSA

• Province of Perugia

Public Procurer

• Province of Perugia

Partner

10. Pilots

• Secret bid

• Province of Perugia B

• IRISS

• SIEEP

• Municipality of SpataArtemis

143 • Open • Open

• Open

• Auction

• Secret bid

• Auction

• Secret bid

• CCIN of Castellon

• CCI of TERRASSA

• Municipality of PileaHortiatis

• University of Vlora

• RAIS

• Open

• Reserved

• Open

• Reserved

• Open

Tender Procedure

• Auction

• Mountain Community ALTO BASENTO (PABBC ) & Atlantis

• Secret bid

Type of Tender

• Province of Perugia A

Partner

• Lowest Price & technical specs

• Lowest price & technical specs

• Lowest Price& technical specs

• Lowest Price & technical specs

• Facade

• 7 Projectors

• Printers

• Fluorescents LED

• Thermal solar plant

• Photovoltaic

• Building renovation (boiler, LED lamps, pv system)

• Public Lighting

• Lowest Price & technical specs • Lowest Price & technical specs

• Supply & Delivery of IT equipment

• 6 monitors

• 7 desktop PCs

Subject of Tender

• Lowest Price satisfying the administrative & technical criteria

• Lowest Price

Award Criteria

10. Pilots

10. Pilots Province of Perugia

The Pilot action was carried out by the Province of Perugia in November 2014 by means of the national compulsory e-procurement platform “MEPA”, following the green specs identified in: GRASP DBs and e-GPP tool within the db Energy Efficiency category- Sub

category Information Technology- IT EU GPP criteria and EU Ecolabel (Office IT equipment) Minimum environmental criteria (Italian GPP NAP), developed to facilitate the inclusion of green requirements in public tender documents. The subject of the tender was the purchasing of monitors and desktops equipment, in substitution to the previous ones, obsolete in terms of the quality of the images, the high emissions and the energy consumption. The tender was a secret bid and the procedures were open. As award criterion was set the lowest price. The invitation to tender has been addressed to 178 regional companies recorded in MEPA system (thus involving only the territory of the Umbria Region) and only 2 companies presented an offer: PUCCIUFFICIO srl and MASSINELLI srl. The objective of the Pilot was to show how the adoption of GRASP methodology can be useful to Public Administration, in the preparation and execution of a tender, with respect to the environment and by saving money at the same time (Environmental and Economic Criteria). The method that was used was that of lowest price related to products respecting the minimum environmental requirements; the method has been compared with the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis tool, taking in account a tender that respects the sustainability and the environmental impact of the products purchased.

a. Desktop PCs The subject of the first tender was the purchase of 7 Desktop PCs with a quotient total/unit cost equal to 4060/580 €. For evaluating the results of the tender, the benefits that derive from the substitution of a currently used product (desktop) with a more environmental-friendly product were compared, using the LCC tool. According to the results, the purchase of a more environmental-friendly product is clearly the most costefficient choice in the case of this pilot. Apart from saving on energy costs, the green product can also reduce emissions drastically through avoiding 4,187 tons of CO2 over a period of 5 years.

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10. Pilots

b. monitors The subject of the second tender was the purchase/substitution of 6 LCD Monitors with a quotient total/unit cost equal to 498/83 â&#x201A;Ź. Through maintaining the duration and the number of replacement purchases equivalent between the lowest priced product and the environment-friendly product, the difference has been once again significant between the energy costs and the reduction in emissions. The environmental-friendly product turned out to be clearly the better investment when noting that over a five year period the energy costs were nearly 1/10 of the cost of the lowest-priced product. In addition, during the five years, 2,433 tons of CO2 were avoided and the total life cycle cost of the environmental-friendly product was approximately 8.6 % of the total life cycle cost of the lowest priced product.

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10. Pilots

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10. Pilots IRISS

The Institute for the research and improvement of social sciences (IRISS) carried out a tender in cooperation with the Government of Malta, in particular with the Ministry of Finance. The subject of the tender was the supply and delivery of IT equipment (â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tender for the supply and delivery of various items of Information Technology (IT) equipment for the setting up of an Ultra Wide Band Laboratory at the Department of Physics at the University of Malta.') with a quotient total/unit cost equal to 5940/1485 â&#x201A;Ź. It was a secret bid and the procedures were open, whereas as award criterion was set the lowest price satisfying the administrative and technical criteria set by the procurer. Three SMEs participated in the tender.

In this case, the environment-friendly product did not meet all necessary criteria for being a green product. In particular, the energy consumption of the lowest priced item was nearly half of the product used to represent the green option. Therefore, it is comparatively not the more green option in all categories, negatively affecting the results. Another point to take into account is the maintenance. When there is no data for maintenance, those fields in the calculation of total life cycle costs can be left as 0 with no effect to the rest of the calculation. The comparison is more precise when these additional data are available, but the data are not strictly necessary. 147

10. Pilots SIEEP

The pilot of SIEEP was part of a large modernization plan aiming at controlling and reducing power consumption of public lighting systems in the Province of Haute-Corse. It consisted of organizing a green tender (restricted tender with e-secret bids – 2 weeks duration) for the renovation of public lighting of the Municipality of Saint-Florent. Participants to the tender have been the Inter-District Association of Electrification and Lighting of Haute-Corse (SIEEP) and 2 SMEs: SODI Société Nouvelle and INEO réseaux SUD EST. The tender was a secret bid and the procedures were reserved. As award criterion was considered the lowest price. The final quotient total/unit cost was equal to 18200/650€. Specifically, this pilot dealt with using high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps versus LED. Owing to the large price difference, it would be easy to assume that the most costeffective method would be to simply use the HPS lamps. However, over the lifetime of the LEDs, which is 19,18 years, the LCC difference comes to almost € 21.956,30 in favor of the LED. This means that, in the end, the decision to select LEDs instead of HPS lamps is economically beneficial with a payback time of almost 6 years.

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10. Pilots Municipality of Spata - Artemis

In this pilot, organized by the Municipality of Spata-Artemis three cases were examined.

1st case: light bulbs In the first case, the scenario of replacing the conventional light bulbs (fluorescent) with LED lamps was examined. The results confirmed that the more expensive LED Lamps were the best choice. This is a typical case of an environment-friendly priced product having a lower LCC, and this is also a good example of the amount of CO2 that can be avoided by selecting a green product. Compared to the conventional bulb, the LED avoids 50,102 tons of CO2. A decrease of this proportion would be a large drop in overall emissions for any municipality. This experiment shows that, when these green characteristics are taken into account, there are many economical and environmental benefits as a result of choosing the environment-friendly product.

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10. Pilots 2nd case: boilers In the second case of the pilot of Municipality of Spata-Artemis, the scenario of replacing the existing boilers with a new one was examined. The difference between the two boilers was observed in price and efficiency. The results confirmed the obvious, that the highest efficiency boiler, despite the fact that it was more expensive, was the best choice.

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10. Pilots 3rd case: pv system st

In the third case, two scenarios of a photovoltaic (pv) system were examined. The 1 scenario carries the lower price and offers less electricity production because the photovoltaic system consists of a solar panel with highest “NOCT” index value, and lowest inverter efficiency. In the 2nd scenario, the photovoltaic will operate under the “net metering” program; thus the electricity production by the pv system avoids electricity cost for the school. In the 2nd scenario, the equivalent avoided electricity price is 0,09572 €/kWh (under Greek Legislation). The results show that with the more expensive pv system a highest Life Cycle Revenue was obtained, and this was possible because a larger cost was avoided.

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10. Pilots CCIN of Castellon

The Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Services and Navigation of Castellon tested the development of a tender example that took place in the past for purchasing thermal solar panels for water heating system. The tender, classified under the category “solar thermal (buildings)” was an auction and the procedures were open. As award criterion was considered the lowest price with tank and lifetime specification. The final quotient total/unit cost was equal to 4975/995 €. The main objective of the test was to compare the obtained results and the efficiency of the use of GRASP eGPP platform instead of the traditional method of procurement based in the lowest price up-front. The tender was analyzed through eGPP platform and applying GRASP methodology; green specifications were taken into account when purchasing the related product/service given in the eGPP platform. Ten SMEs from the province of Castellon participated in the test, offering different products.

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10. Pilots In this experiment, the only results that needed to be considered were the effects that the examined products created. After this calculation, it was clear that the lowest price product was more economically beneficial. To solve this, the lifetime of the sustainableprice product would need to be increased (by about 6 years for this comparison), or its price would need to be decreased. This case was interesting because it shows that there are times when the lowest-price product will be more economically beneficial than the green product; it also shows that this tool is not limited to comparisons between products that are green and not green, but it can compare any two products. Thus when deciding selecting

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10. Pilots CCI of Terrassa

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Terrassa realised a test tender in indoor (office) lighting. The sustainable product was a fluorescent LED. The Public Procurer was the Municipality of Rubi; 10 SMEs participated in the tender procedure. The tender was a secret bid, the procedures followed were open and the award criterion was the lowest price. This case was a good example of the usefulness of the LCC tool. The lowest-price product was clearly less expensive than the environmental-friendly product considering the initial purchase price (less than 1/4 of the cost); but in the end, the sustainable product's LCC was less than half the LCC of the lowest-price product.

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10. Pilots Municipality of Pilea - Hortiatis

The Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis realized 3 tests based on 3 tenders finalized in the past, with “green” specs limitations. They were under the general IT equipment category and the products involved were pc monitor (display), portable computer and printer. All tenders were announced a month before the final call and were “lowest price winner” type. The tenders involved entities belonging to the Central Macedonia region of Greece. Since each tender had only one offer, the SMEs were contacted to give advice and prices over any other relative product in order to assure the validity of the tests. In the table below is given the evaluation of the second test tender, which was a secret bid with open procedures. The subject of the tender was printers and the quotient total/unit cost was equal to 3000/600 €. This case is another good example of a lowest-price product whose LCC is higher than the sustainable-price product. It’s also an example of the complexity of the maintenance calculation, since the maintenance of a printer requires several subproducts/services (paper, ink, general repairs). The savings that derive from the evaluation are somewhat small, but when added together, it’s easy to see how this simple tool could help an organization save money.

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10. Pilots Mountain Community Alto Basento (PABBC) Atlantis The two partners: Mountain Community Alto Basento (P.A.B.B.C.) a n d A t l a n t i s Consulting Cyprus, cooperated in order to develop together a transnational test-tender, based on GRASP methodology and tools. The test was an open tender and was available for three days, from 20/05/2015 till 22/05/2015. The tender was advertised as a real tender directly on the home page of the Italian partner, http://www.areaprogrammabasento.it/. By realising a transnational test, these partners went beyond what is initially required in the project. This is of substantial added value to the test activities of GRASP. The aim of this test was (a) to simulate a real e-tender to build and implement a photovoltaic system in accordance to the GRASP procedures, and (b) verify the difference in terms of LCC between GPP and a tender that considers only the lowest upfront price without taking into account any green specification. This joint case tested 10 photovoltaic plants to find the most cost-efficient one.

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10. Pilots For this test, the lowest-price product was not as cost-efficient as the product with the lowest sustainable-price. This case was interesting because it produces energy (which is the cause of the negative value under energy consumption/production in the tool) instead of consuming it. The final result of this experiment had a negative value for the LCC, which indicates that both products have the possibility to not only save money for the organizations if the energy is completely used where it is produced (as assumed in this case), but also to make money for them if there is an excess, which can be a complicated calculation and very case-specific. Since both products were renewable energy sources, the tool in this case took into account the efficiency and the maintenance of each product, in order to identify the one that provides more savings. Particularly here the sustainable-price product had a lower maintenance cost than the lowest upfront-cost, and this makes it more efficient and economical.

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10. Pilots University of Vlora

In the case of the University of Vlora, an auction tender was tested with reserved procedures and the lowest price as the award criterion. The tender was carried out by the University with the participation of five SMEs of the IT sector, since the subject of the tender was the purchase of 7 projectors. The maintenance cost of the product was not taken into account during the evaluation process owing to the complexity of this situation. While this may have altered the results, the experiment still met the green criteria. Over the five year period, the environmentfriendly product failed to save more costs during the total life cycle. Therefore, even though it saved 0,124 tons of CO2 and a total economic value of 0,9 â&#x201A;Ź, the lowest priced item was presented as the best solution.

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10. Pilots RAIS

RAIS test-tender was an open procedure for the selection of facade works performer for the Administrative center of City of East Sarajevo, with the characteristics of classical method compared to characteristics of GRASP methodology. This case was hard to evaluate but very interesting, since it has to do with a building retrofitting operation that uses different forms of energy sources. Three different sources had to be taken into consideration: natural gas, fuel oil, and electricity. The overall cost is calculated as the sum of three different LCC sheets. The first table describes the changes in the consumption of natural gas. Passing from the unaltered building to the improved one in regards to energy consumption, the use of natural gas is less than half for the improved building. Beyond the energy saving that is due to the reduction of fuel consumption, the operation allows the reduction of CO2 emissions.

The second table shows the difference in electricity before and after the building retrofitting. In this case the consumption of energy is higher in the improved buildings.

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10. Pilots

The third table describes the usage of fuel oil. Energy consumption for the improved building is zero, while prior to retrofitting the consumption was substantially higher (13764 l).

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10. Pilots

The final assessment, found in the conclusion, is based on the sum of the total LCC of all three different energy sources; the conclusion indicates that the environment-friendly option carries lower LCC but higher CO2.

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10. Pilots Conclusions During the pilot/testing phase of GRASP project, 5 pilots (2 by Province of Perugia, 1 by IRISS, 1 by SIEEP and 1 by the Municipality of Spata-Artemis) and 9 tests (1 by CCI of Terrassa, 1 by CCIN of Castellon, 1 by the Mountain Community Alto Basento in cooperation with Atlantis, 1 by the Municipality of Spata-Artemis, 3 by the Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis, 1 by the University of Vlora and 1 by RAIS) were carried out by GRASP partnership.

From the evaluation process using the LCC tool, not in all cases the environmentalfriendly product was the most-economic one. More specifically, 2/12 of the examined cases were not favorable in terms of the environment and 3/12 of them were not favorable financially. However, 8/12 of the results were in favor of the environment-friendly choice, a decision obtained in terms of both the LCC difference and the avoided CO2.

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11. GRASP policy potential

The key policy findings from our work indicate the following:

π It is feasible to develop databases of green procurement needs and products in the

EE/RES sectors, which are essential for e-GPP policy to become operational in these sectors. π SMEs are eager to provide information on their green products in the above Energy

sectors, thus operationalising the relevant GRASP database. π PAs are eager to express their needs in e-GPP in the above Energy sectors, thus

providing the needed requirements for an e-GPP policy to become operational. π Key for operationalising the e-GPP method into mainstreaming is the requirement

for assessing the degree to which EE/RES products and services are green, something that has been achieved in GRASP. π A second key element for supporting the transformation of this method from

advisory into binding is the ability to evaluate across product and service options, which has been accomplished within the project. π PAs and SMEs are supportive of the e-GPP tools as long as they are operational and

binding for all. For this to happen, the next step is to proceed in transforming the advisory e-GPP into binding policy within SEAPs. π GRASP partners that represent or are associated with Regional Energy Agencies,

Regional Chambers, and the Central Government are working on setting the stage for the transformation of e-GPP advisory GRASP tools into SEAP-based binding policy. π If e-GPP is transformed into regional binding policy within SEAPs, public procurers

recognize that they can use the GRASP evaluation tools to reduce costs within their organization, reduce energy consumption, and reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses.

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12. Synergies

Why Synergies? Synergies between projects result from the common needs and goals between these projects. Early identification of these synergies provides an added valued to the projects and lead to more effective capitalization of their findings. GRASP considers interaction with other projects -especially those in the MED programme- a matter of great importance, and builds on these in order to create new foundations for common actions in the future. In the framework of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Phase2.2-Interaction with other (MED) projectsâ&#x20AC;?, GRASP contacted partners of relevant MED projects of this Call and cooperated with them, analysing complementarities across projects. This analysis includes identification of needs of other projects, which GRASP could satisfy, and an offer to satisfy those needs. It also includes identification of ways that results from other projects could strengthen GRASP outcomes. The identification of these links led to a better definition of the ways in which energy efficiency and energy conservation can be users of e-procurement, and of the ways in which e-procurement could address the needs of its potential users. It also led to supporting capitalization plans of GRASP.

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12. Synergies Approach In order to approach other projects, many communication tools were used such as: GRASP website, promotional material and e-newsletters, and a sent to all MED projects of the same Call, presenting GRASP and its objectives and requesting information on common links.

MED events and European / International conferences, which were attended by GRASP partners provided another opportunity for networking, making contact with projects and institution that appeared to exhibit similarities with GRASP objectives. During most of these events, GRASP had an active role by presenting its progress and achievements. The following list includes some of them: ¥ MED Annual Event (23-24/10/2013, Lisbon) ¥ REPUBLIC-MED project meeting and workshop “New European Directive on

nearly zero-energy buildings - Are we ready for 2018?” in Marseilles, 15-17th October 2013 ¥ REPUBLIC-MED conference: “Energy and Environmental Retrofitting of Public

Space: Innovative Methods and Perspectives”, 20/03/2014, in Piraeus, Athens, Greece. ¥ Capitalisation workshop “Synergies and joint activities of MED projects – opportunities and possibilities for cooperation”, that was organised within project CO-EFFICIENT in Bled-Slovenia, in June 2014 (04/06/2014). ¥ PEEBPE conference “BEE RES 2014 Conference: Buildings Energy Efficiency &

Renewable Energy Sources” that took place in Kozani, Greece, in June 2014 (0103/06/2014). ¥ MARIE final conference “Energy Savings in Buildings - Energy Service

Companies (ESCOs) & Energy Performance Contracting (EPC)”, on 1/12/2014, in Kozani, Greece.

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12. Synergies Achieved Synergies

MoUs

Some of the approached projects responded positively to our invitation for synergy. The agreement for cooperation between GRASP and the identified projects was sealed with the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with them. More specifically, the following MoUs were signed between GRASP Lead partner and the Lead Partners of other projects:

1. MoU with REPUBLIC-MED & REMIDA - signed with CRES from project REPUBLIC-MED and ERFC from project REMIDA on the 24th of February 2014, Spata-Athens-Greece. 2. MoU with PEEBPE & MARIE - signed with Department of Territory and Sustainable of the Government of Catalonia from the strategic MED project MARIE and the Technological Educational Institute of Western Macedonia, LP of the Greece-FYROM project called PEEBPE. 3. MoU with CO-EFFICIENT - signed on the 7th of October 2014 with the University of Maribor, Lead Partners of CO-EFFICIENT project.

e-Prior & GRASP

4. MoU with BIOFOSS - signed on the 1st of December 2014 with BioFoss (Greece-FYROM programme) Lead Partner, Municipal District Heating Company of the Wider Region of Amyntaion.

Moreover, communication/cooperation was established with members of the European Commission's Green Public Procurement DG Environment, which will help in the promotion of GRASP tools in Europe. The contact was made with the suggestion of EC project e-PRIOR, during a technical-synergy meeting which was held in Brussels (18/03/2014), between GRASP and ePRIOR. It was agreed that GRASP results will be published in the GPP News Alert of the European Commission, and that the two projects - GRASP and ePRIOR - will keep in touch in order for GRASP tools to be incorporated into the e-PRIOR platform and in particular in the module of a green tender preparation, whose development will begin in April 2016.

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12. Synergies Common Actions The above mentioned projects that signed a MoU cooperated in the following actions, which were carried out during the projects lifetime.

Technology sorting and energy pilots of Public Private Peoples Partnerships (REMIDA)

Best practices on procurement and legal framework on national and European level (GRASP)

Indicators that calculate/estimate the increase in the energy efficiency of buildings when EE and RES methodologies are implemented in these buildings; simulations predicting the required energy upgrading for these buildings (REPUBLIC-MED).

Incorporation of these tools into GRASP eGPP service, which will indicate to the users (PAs and SMEs) how they will benefit from the implementation of EE and RES methodologies.

Common dissemination activities such as trilateral events, contact sharing of stakeholders; and playing a catalyst role in merging the actions of the three projects at local, regional, national and European level

Assist in the implementation challenges that each project is facing, such as the development of the Mediterranean Building Energy Efficiency Strategy (MEDBEES) in MARIE; Best Practices in Green Procurement and Legal Framework at National and European level in GRASP;

The development of the e-procurement database of SMEs for GRASP; the development of the Knowledge database for CO-EFFICIENT and the gathering of Best Practices in Procurement and Legal Framework at National and European level for both projects.

Use of GRASP tools in the BioFoss tender for partial strengthening of district heating network Amyntaion with large cogeneration plant biomass (study Cost: over 100,000 Euro).

Publication of a common e-newsletter between projects GRASP, MARIE and PEEBPE which was published in July 2014 and included information on the actions, progress, future activities and synergies of the three projects.

With certain projects GRASP will remain in touch, merging their achievements, expertise and experience in new MED projects, aiming at extended testing and capitalisation of tools, towards the road of transferability and sustainability in the Energy and eGPP sector.

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12. Synergies Synergies Event On the 12th of March 2015, University of Patras co-organised with the Municipality of Piraeus a Synergetic Event, in the framework of synergies between MED projects and, more specifically, between GRASP and REPUBLIC-MED.

The title of the event was â&#x20AC;&#x153;OPEN DAY - MED/EU SYNERGIES CONFERENCE ENERGY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS AND METHODS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FRAMEWORK OF BUILDINGS REFURBISHMENTâ&#x20AC;?; it was hosted by Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Piraeus and it was attended by more than 80 persons.

The MED/ EU Synergies Conference focused on the presentation of energy performance indicators and the methods that can be used in order to create a sustainable framework for buildings' refurbishments. In addition, the representatives of a series of relevant and synergetic projects - CO-EFFICIENT, PEEBPE and REMIDA - gave their point of view concerning the methods used for retrofitting buildings and open spaces, sharing their experiences and knowledge. The scope was to integrate the projects' findings into smart public procurement through the use of the most suitable KPIs.

The final part of the Open Day aimed at offering the opportunity to the participants to discuss with the speakers upon issues that were presented and analyzed during the previous sections like the use of technical and financial indicators when it comes to refurbishment, interpretation of these indicators, energy management systems, and the involvement of unemployed in energy related projects.

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12. Synergies Outcomes

Within the framework of our cooperation with synergetic programs, certain topics of common interest came out, where we were able to create complementary connections with our results. 짜

With REPUBLIC-MED there is common interest in the field of indicators. More specifically, CRES, the lead partner of the project is currently attempting to define and measure a number of indicators, in order to record the efficiency of different approaches in energy saving and use of alternative energy sources, regarding public buildings and open spaces energy upgrading; and to predict the work needed for each new case, so that an effective improvement and refurbishment plan can be designed. GRASP will contribute in the setting of these indicators and, after the creation of tools, these can be incorporated into GRASP eGPP service, which will indicate to the users (PAs and SMEs) how they will benefit from the implementation of EE and RES methodologies.

짜

With CO-EFFICIENT, the issue that we are working on is SMEs. COEFFICIENT is a project that addresses SME needs and has an opening to Slovenian small and medium enterprises. With the collaboration of the two projects, the connection between SMEs and public agencies/stakeholders in the field of green public procurement can be upgraded, improved and facilitated, using the tools that GRASP has developed, also working on the challenge of more energy efficient and innovative SMEs that can be assisted by living labs.

짜

With PEEBPE, issues on energy refurbishment in buildings will be covered. PEEBPE is attempting to stimulate communities and make the necessary changes in public buildings in order to save energy, and the platform of GRASP can offer the ability to make this work green and eco-friendly all the way to the tender. So, the products and services that will be used for the reduction of energy consumption can be found within the tools of GRASP.

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13. Capitalisation Introduction A Capitalization Plan involves the collection of added-value information by the partners in order to see which of the results obtained after the execution of the project are more successful, and can, therefore, be transferred. It is expected that these results will be transferred to other agents, institutions and organizations with strong influence on future decisions in European programmes and funding. The Capitalisation Plan of the GRASP project has been designed in such a way as to strengthen the exploitation of the tangible and intangible results of the GRASP project, enhance their impact in the Med region, and facilitate their integration at multiple levels.

Exploitation Tools The following tools are expected to be used for the promotion of the GRASP project and its results after Project completion:

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Project website

13. Capitalisation The project website, social networks and Transnational Mediterranean Network (TMN) will be sustained after the end of the project as part of the capitalisation activities of the project network by University of Patras, Lead Partner of GRASP. The website will remain active and its material will be available for downloading. In case of continuation of GRASP project, the same website and social networks will be used for publishing news about that continuation, and for promoting its achievements and partnership activities. In particular, this is in accordance to the Terms of Reference of the new module-based approach of the MED programme, which points out that modular projects should not foresee budget allocations for developing project websites. Furthermore, this is a good way to follow the evolution of GRASP project, beginning with the development of its methodology (GRASP), and continuing with its tools improvements/ upgrading and the results of its extended testing through pilot activities, which is the main objective of the planned continuation of GRASP.

Social Networks (Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn) The social networks of GRASP (Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter) will also remain active for visitors to get informed on GRASP project and results. They will also be used in a possible continuation of GRASP.

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13. Capitalisation Dissemination material The digital version of the dissemination material will be available on GRASP website for at least 5 years after the project ends. The leaflets and brochures of the project could be placed in partners' institutions locations of public view, such as the reception point, and will be shared in relevant meetings and events. Newsletters

TMN Network

The newsletters presented the objectives of GRASP project, its achievements and progress made, as well as the challenges faced in the implementation of the planned activities/platforms. This information could benefit other EU projects, research institutions, and actors, as GRASP is paving the way of a wide range of innovation strategies. In this context, it is essential to promote GRASP newsletters to the academic community and operators of other relevant EU projects. The newsletters will be available on GRASP website and on partners' websites as well.

GRASP Transnational Mediterranean Network (TMN) was a strategic tool for the communication strategy and for the use and dissemination of GRASP eGPP service. TMN is a network of public/private operators of e-procurement in renewable energy and energy efficiency and was established through a special agreement amongst MED public and private operators. Through their participation to this network, MED public authorities and businesses can demonstrate their willingness to participate in the GRASP e-procurement service, learn about other users' and procurers' needs, and implement the service. In case of continuation of the project, the network will play a key role in the networking and the establishment of communication and cooperation amongst the end users of the eGPP service, which will strengthen performance of piloting and mainstreaming into binding policy via SEAPs at regional level.

Handbooks & User Manuals The eGPP manual and the DBs handbook will be available on the project website as well. In addition, it will be sent to partners' local network of SMEs and Public Authorities, in order to attract their interest in the eGPP tool.

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GRASP DBs & eGPP tool

13. Capitalisation The server where these tools have been installed is rented by the University of Patras for one more year after the end of the project. In addition, after the expiration of the renting period, UPatras will install the tools (GRASP DBs and eGPP service) in its own server, which will be based in UPatras (specifically, within the Department of Civil Engineering). Thus we will ensure that the Databases will remain active after the end of the project, and all interested users (PAs, SMEs) will have access to it in order to indicate their needs and register their own products and services. This way, the Databases will be upgraded and populated with more members (Public Agencies and SMEs), products/services, green criteria, (sub) categories and (sub) types. Moreover, the eGPP service with all the included evaluation tools (LCC tool, Building material evaluation calculator and Public Lighting Renovation Tool) that is directly linked to GRASP Databases and TMN will remain accessible to the Public Procurers as a consultation tool in the preparation of a green tender. Both tool sets will be used in a continuation of GRASP. In particular, the main plan is to upgrade the eGPP tool through the incorporation of tools that were developed by other projects with which GRASP has established synergetic relationship. This updated and upgraded eGPP tool will be tested by end-users in a potential new project. The whole new project idea is based on using and testing of these tools, and the capitalization on their results.

Pilot Action Results GRASP Project has developed a report compiling the results of the Pilot Actions. These results and main conclusions will be published in the Project website and disseminated across the relevant stakeholders.

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13. Capitalisation

Action Plans Every partner developed an action plan with the activities they are planning to develop in their territory, especially after the end of the project, and with the aim to capitalise on GRASP outcomes. 13 Regional Action Plans were developed in total. A short summary of these Action Plans is given below.

University of Patras

Near the end of the project, UPatras established a good relationship with the Department for Technical Specifications of Procured Goods, General Secretariat of Commerce and Consumer Protection (EL), who participated in GRASP Final Conference. The two parties met again, along with the General Directorate of Public Procurement and Purchasing and the General Secretariat for Trade and Consumer Protection of Greece, to examine the possibility of future cooperation. Such cooperation could be directed at incorporating GRASP tools into the national platform of e-public procurement. Even though this cooperation was established towards the end of the project, it is worth mentioning since it is a notable outcome for the capitalization of all the GRASP tools.

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13. Capitalisation

During GRASP implementation, GRASP had several meetings with ePRIOR project, which develops an e-procurement system, under the EC's ISA (Interoperability Solutions for European Public Administrations) programme by the Directorate General for Informatics (DIGIT). It is an exchange platform connecting administrative back-office systems, and is based on European standards. e-Prior facilitates standardized e-procurement document exchanges between a public administration on the one hand, and suppliers across Europe on the other. The system includes a PEPPOL Access Point, opening up e-Prior to any supplier who is connected to this network. The two projects, GRASP and ePRIOR, had discussed the possibility of cooperation since GRASP offers the "green" characteristic of a tender which is missing from ePRIOR platform. At their last meeting (17/3/2014, Brussels), the two projects agreed to keep in touch and discuss again the possibility of incorporating GRASP eGPP tool into ePRIOR modules, when GRASP deliverables would be finalized and functional. Thus, after finalizing the development of the eGPP tool, UPatras started working towards this direction with our ePRIOR contacts. Material such as the manuals, technical reports and the links to access GRASP tools, were sent to ePRIOR staff in order to assess their potential function in the ePRIOR platform. The procedure is in progress and is a notable outcome of capitalizing GRASP tools and methodology.

Province of Perugia

The Province of Perugia has contacted and involved the Region of Umbria in activities connected to the implementation of the GPP tools and e-service system for e- Green Public Procurement. In particular with Umbria Region some synergies have been activated concerning the use of the regional mark on the environmental sustainability: Green Heart Quality. The Region â&#x20AC;&#x153;Green Heart of Italyâ&#x20AC;? is the first to adopt an eco-label that is designed to certify and reward those who follow a green philosophy. It also aims to strengthen green procurement in the Region involving Umbria Region, Provinces and municipalities of Umbria, and producers of goods/ services.

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Umbria Region aims to use Green Heart Quality as a criterion for GPP. GRASP eGPP tool, as an advisory assistance in determining quality requirements for green technologies and solutions, can help Umbria Region to perform a critical review of the relevant criteria and to update them.

The on line GPP tool will be capitalized and disseminated in the institutional web site of the Province as well as in the current institutional project, which aims to make the Province of Perugia an autonomous central purchasing body, with a leading role in supporting the local Municipalities in the preparation of e-tenders. Moreover, the Province of Perugia plans to implement further the project outputs such as TMN, GRASP website, Training Material and the Databases (e-GPP tool) by the web institutional channel like the Province site (www.provincia.perugia.it) and the strategic links that will be activated to guarantee the visibility of the tools after the project ends at regional/national and international level. From the web page of the Province it will be possible to connect to GRASP web site and to navigate the TMN and the e-GPP tool.

IRISS

The GRASP project will continue to be disseminated through the Department for Local Government which provides administrative support to 5 regional committees and 68 local councils (54 in Malta and 14 in Gozo).

The Department for Local Government not only has endorsed the GRASP project but also endeavors to promote innovative solutions such as GRASP to ensure sustainable development at local level. It shall continue promoting GRASP project after its termination as this will enable the attainment of, and adherence to, its targets towards sustainability and environmental protection. The project website will continue having a direct link from the IRISS website (www.researchscoialsciences.org), and will feature in the IRISS's promotion of any future activities via its web platform. Wherever possible, IRISS will also continue posting on the project's social media networks so that the project continues to be promoted. 177

13. Capitalisation The National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF), which is a Strategic Objective of the Operational Programme II, entitled Empowering People for More Jobs and a Better Quality of Life, sets out Malta's priorities for the Cohesion Policy 2007- 2013. The priority areas identified within NSFR aim to support Malta's vision to promote competitiveness, a high value adding economy in order to achieve sustainable socioeconomic development and a better quality of life for its citizens. The result expected from the GRASP tool is that its dual purpose, serving as both a specking and an evaluation tool, will make it easier for Government to ensure that its procurement has the least-possible environmental impact, thereby reducing carbon emissions. From this point of view, it is expected that it will have a positive impact on the environment and energy sectors, improving the quality of life of citizens. Moreover, Operational Programme 1 is one of Malta's four strategic documents supporting the Partnership Agreement of Malta 2014-2020, which provides the general strategic thrust for Malta's development through interventions under the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) 2014-2020. The GRASP e-GPP tool is expected to contribute to the development of the measures that have been outlined to address the objectives set out in this operational programme, especially in Malta's commitment to increasing energy efficiency, reducing GHG emissions, and generating more energy from renewables.

CCI of Terrassa

The Catalan Government has approved the RIS3CAT research and innovation strategy, aimed at ensuring that European Union co-financed research and innovation investments are turned into economic growth and jobs. RIS3CAT also identifies tools and public policies. The implementation of these tools is closely linked to the operational programmes of the European funds. The Catalan government will present RIS3CAT to the European Commission, and will elaborate the operational programmes of the European funds and define the RIS3CAT instruments together with the representatives of the research and innovation system, companies and the local administration.

Grasp results are very much in line with the regional government priorities on energy and innovative public procurement. In this sense, Grasp project has been a booster bridging public administration, business community and research institutions, through the TMN community which functions as an exchange forum for all organizations involved.

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Terrassa and Rubi City Council have been involved in TMN community since its creation and have taken part in different stages of Grasp project development, dissemination activities, theoretical/practical seminars and final conference. Rubi City Council showed interest in taking part in possible pilot actions using Grasp eGPP tool for energy efficiency public procurement. Also public Polytechnic University of Catalonia (Terrassa Campus) have implemented renewable energies pilot projects and is willing to take part in more pilot projects using Grasp.

Mountain Community Alto Basento (PABBC)

The MCAB (PABBC) is signing an agreement with its 20 Municipalities members to centralize the purchasing system using a tool that is settled upon GRASP methodology, and implemented during the project. The main goal is to apply GRASP methodology to all procurement actions carried out among the Burgs of the MCAB (PABBC), with a purchasing value exceeding 40 kâ&#x201A;Ź . In Basilicata there are 131 Municipalities. If GRASP manages to launch its methodology to 20 of these Municipalities, which are part of the MCAB (PABBC), its contribution at Regional Level will be around the 15%. In the next three years, the MCAB (PABBC), in cooperation with two Municipalities will start working on 2-3 actions that have to do with the refurbishment of public buildings using the GRASP best practices. The Director of the MCAB (PABBC) had many formal and informal meetings with the regional decision-making actors to generalize the GRASP methodology at Regional Level. In particular, the meetings held in Terrassa, Spain (5-7 March 2015) and in Patras (27-29 May 2015) were attended by the Counselor of the Region Basilicata, Mr. Mario Polese who is quite interested in Green Policy and innovation. The goal of MCAB is to generalize Grasp Methodology at Regional Level, in cooperation with the Region of Basilicata and the SEL (Regional Agency for the Energy). 179

13. Capitalisation Municipality of Spata - Artemis

The Municipality of Spata-Artemis has already trained the staff of its relevant Departments, on the GRASP eGPP tool & Database, in order to be able to use them as consultancy tools in the preparation of a tender. In Greece, all Greek Municipal Procurements are governed by the Official Hellenic Procurement Service (EAADDISY). If GRASP consortium manages to establish a cooperation with the General Directorate of Public Procurement and Purchasing and the General Secretariat for Trade and Consumer Protection of Greece, towards the integration of GRASP tools into the national platform of procurement, this will be a great achievement. This way, all Municipalities will be encouraged and compelled to use green criteria in their tenders.

APEA Siena

APEA Siena and qualified technicians will help the region, provinces, and municipalities to create their own SEAP as they join the Covenant of Mayors. The purpose of this action is to create an environment in which the voluntary actions of public and private entities, such as the use of GRASP tools and the implementation of its outcomes, will become a mandatory and essential part of their governmental policy, in particular within the context of a SEAP. A Life Cycle Costs (LCC) calculator has been created to assist PAs in Green Public Procurement (GPP). This tool allows the comparison of different products based on price, lifetime, maintenance, cost of energy, and CO2 emissions, in order to evaluate the total cost of the two products over a certain period of time. This way, it is simple to check if a green product is economically worthwhile compared to another product. This tool will help the PAs make better economic and environmental decisions, which will help their territories reach the EU 20/20/20 directive. 180

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APEA is concluding 2 SEAPS with the Municipalities of Poggibonsi and Colle di Val d'Elsa. As a result, 2 â&#x20AC;&#x153;classicalâ&#x20AC;? Sustainable Action Energy Plans will be developed, based on specific GPP actions. In the end, the abovementioned municipalities will have all the SEAP ordinary tools, such as local inventory, monitoring system etc, with focus on future GPP actions. Using as examples the Municipalities of Poggibonsi and Colle di Val d'Elsa, APEA Siena will work closely with the Region, provinces, and municipalities, and will encourage each eligible entity to become part of the Covenant of Mayors. With the help of the qualified professionals associated with APEA, each entity will construct its own SEAP in an effort to reach the expected results. APEA will also introduce the LCC tool to help each administration with GPP in an effort to reach these goals. With these actions, the voluntary actions performed to reach the EU 20/20/20 directive will be integrated into public policy and will become more widely spread through the Region.

A SEAP which incorporates GRASP outcomes and GPP can have a positive impact on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. With these goals in mind, it is a good choice to move forward with this project to help each municipality and by extension each province and region, reduce their consumption and reach the EU directives.

Atlantis The e- GPP tool will be disseminated in Cyprus to SMEs and Public Authorities. The department of environment will provide help, especially with the public sector. The training material will be improved and customized to the local needs. The tool is expected to be used at a first stage by the Department of Environment. Based on the experience of the DoE improvements will be made, and efforts will be made to use the tool by other public authorities.

There are ongoing discussions with interested public authorities on the future possible uses of the GRASP tools. Government departments, such as the department of Public Works, and municipalities have expressed interest in cooperating in a GRASP continuation project. The main goal will be to improve the tools and customize them to the local needs through testing.

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13. Capitalisation Generally, there seems to be a strong interest in green e-procurement. However certain major issues have to be addressed. The most important are the following: ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤

Different regulations and procedures for procurement by public authorities in every European country Tax regulations in case the tenders are open at a European level. Many different standards for products that make the comparison of them difficult. Uniform standards should be promoted. Services and guarantees for products cannot be provided by SMEs in a uniform way across EU.

It is considered that the most important issue that has to be addressed is the development of uniform green criteria for RES and EE at a European level. This will allow easier comparison across products, and will improve the quality of green products. Green procurement that is used in the whole MED region could be a way to reinforce the uniformity of criteria.

CCIN of Castellon

The Chamber of Castellon will continue disseminating e- GPP tool and its methodology to SMEs and Public authorities. The main objective is to disseminate GRASP methodology to the relevant stakeholders with the aim to achieve a better consciousness about the importance of green e-procurement. GRASP e-GPP tool could be used by Spanish public authorities in order to contribute to the priorities set in the Thematic Objective 4 of 2014-2020 Spanish ERDF-ESF Operational Program, whose aim is to “Support the transition to a low carbon emission economy in all sectors”. Moreover, GRASP tools could be useful in order to achieve the goals of the National and Regional (of Valencia) energy policy, which will focus, among others, on the promotion of renewable resources and energy efficiency. In addition to this, a specific objective will be aimed at the improvement of the energy efficiency in public services at all levels. The Chamber plans to organize several meetings with the County Council of Castellon and other “Central of Purchasing” from the County Council of Valencia and the County Council of Castellon. The Central Purchasing puts at the disposal of the municipalities and other local entities and their instrumental bodies a system of goodservice-supply procurement that makes available a wide range of products/services in the best economic conditions streamlining all procedures and optimizing the

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13. Capitalisation management of the financial resources entrusted by citizens. This system allows an efficient investment in human, technical and financial resources; allows local authorities to experience economic savings and companies to offer economically more advantageous offers through the Central Purchasing. The objective will be to encourage them to incorporate GRASP methodology and “green” criteria in its procurement process.

SIEEP SIEEP is the inter-district association for public lighting of Haute-Corse; thus it is in charge of the maintenance and renovation of the public lighting installations of 234 municipalities of Corsica region. In order to implement public lighting modernization plans, SIEEP has to organize public procurements through which it selects providers.

SIEEP supports municipalities in changing sodium lamps to LEDs: to do so, it has to develop tenders including green criteria and specifications and to collect and analyze bids. In the future, SIEEP will use GRASP e-GPP tool in these tenders. As a matter of fact, during the project, local SMEs specialized in lighting technologies were sensitized to e-GPP, and used GRASP e-GPP tool during the pilot actions of the project. Now the challenge is to develop these practices.

SIEEP's missions are in coherence with the 2014-2020 Corsican ERDF-ESF Operational Program, one of whose objective is to “Support efficiency, intelligent management of energy and the use of renewable energy in public infrastructure, including in public buildings and in the housing sector”. SIEEP mission consists in supporting public authorities to manage their public lighting systems (roads, streets, public building lights points), and to improve their energy efficiency (lower power consumption, lower light pollution, better lighting quality). GRASP e-GPP tool could be used by public authorities for supporting their green procurement actions. SIEEP will also disseminate information on e-GPP directly to the municipalities with which it is working and to regional and national Associations of Mayors, with which SIEEP has a strong cooperation. SIEEP's cooperation with Regional and National Associations of Mayors, EDF and ADEME are ongoing and long term ones. There will be many opportunities in the future to keep these partners informed and to encourage them to use GRASP e-GPP tool.

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For short and middle term, SIEEP - as inter-district association responsible for the public lighting of 234 rural cities - is responsible - with the support of ADEME for the implementation of a large modernization plan aiming at controlling and reducing power consumption of public lighting systems in the province of HauteCorse. So far about 15 municipalities have modernized their public lighting network. Consequently there are about 220 rural cities for which e-GPP may be used in Corsica.

Municipality of Pilea - Hortiatis

Owing to its geographical location, the Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis has favored a regional networking action plan, which includes other municipalities from the region and the administrative authorities of Region of Central Macedonia. To widen the range of dissemination and communication activities so as to involve the regional authorities of Central Macedonia, other municipalities of the region, as well as local and regional SMEs in the e-GPP platform, the Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis intends to unfold a communication strategy targeting to connect the e-GPP platform with other operational projects of the Region of Central Macedonia.

With respect to the implementation procedure of the GRASP e-procurement platform, the Municipality is going to schedule a special meeting of the Municipal Board to decide on service deployment and provision, and on the allocation of resources to support GRASP platform operation after the project ends.

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13. Capitalisation Furthermore, the Procurement Department of the Municipality is prepared for the daily operation of the green e-procurement platform, after the training seminar that took place at the Municipality's premises. The Municipality's Procurement Department is well acquainted with the compilation of the technical specifications and management of tenders within the platform. For the wider deployment of the platform, a localization of the e-procurement platform is considered. A cooperative use of the platform at national and regional level, and the localization of the platform with the cooperation of all partners from Greece is suggested. More importantly, the Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis has an action plan, related to regional operational programmes, to promote a service provision of the e-GPP platform for the Region of Central Macedonia. This task will be assigned to a person from the Municipality. The expected impact of this communication, dissemination and implementation strategy is to trigger interest in the GRASP Green e-procurement platform, and more importantly to attract participation in the e-procurement procedure from all interested parties. This way GRASP DBs can be frequently updated with new members (PAs and SMEs), products, categories, green criteria and key elements, contributing to the sustainability of GRASP platform.

The Municipality of Pilea-Hortiatis participates in the Covenant of Mayors since the 25th of May 2011. The partnership of the Municipality with the Region of Central Macedonia under the Covenant of Mayors can be a good starting point for presenting the GRASP green e-procurement platform since there are much in common in the objectives of the two projects. The Municipality also participates at the City-SEC programme 'Intelligent energy for Europe'.

University of Vlora

University of Vlora will continue the promotion of GRASP outputs, through its website and future activities, seminars, lectures and conferences that it will organize. UVlora plans to hold meetings with the Chambers of Commerce of Vlora, Saranta and Tirana, in order to present GRASP project results and inform them on the benefits local SMEs and regional/national institutions could have by becoming members of GRASP community (TMN, DBs, eGPP tool).

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Albanian government has indicated a willingness to update the Law on Energy and Energy Efficiency. It is also preparing a new Law on Renewable Energy Sources. GRASP tools could be useful in this effort. For this reason UVlora plans to participate and present GRASP in working groups and consultations for the preparation of these laws and other national documents and strategies in Albania. This way UVlora aims to persuade policy makers in the adaption of more environmental friendly legeslation and promote GRASP tools.

RAIS

Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn't yet have adequate laws which could use developed GRASP methodologies. There are no strategic documents at local and national level in the field of EE, RES and Public Procurement, where GRASP tools could be used. However, the City of East Sarajevo is in the process of preparing the local energy efficacy strategic document. RAIS, who is involved in the process of creating this document, will use the knowledge gained from GRASP project, as well as its results and tools, and incorporate them in the document.

RAIS has identified possible future cooperation with some institutions, among which: the Public procurement agency BiH, the Independent system operator in BiH, the Institute for standardization of BiH, the Regional environmental center, and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of East Sarajevo. Those institutions have expressed their willingness to contribute in the dissemination of GRASP methodology and tools in Bosnia and Herzegovina. RAIS has established a work framework with the above mentioned entities, whose mission is to work together on: 1. the process of encouraging the application of “green” electronic public procurement, by involving state institutions. 2. the definition of “green” criteria for electronic public procurement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 3. promotion of project GRASP and adaption of its tools by national stakeholders 4. the preparation of a study on “green” electronic public procurement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 5. the influence of the political decision-makers.

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14. Perugia Declaration In November 2014, during the 3rd international project meeting that was hosted by the Province of Perugia, the partnership of GRASP agreed to sign the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Perugia Declarationâ&#x20AC;? document. According to this document, the partners declare their willingness to work towards the reinforcement of the cooperation amongst public agencies and small-and-medium-enterprises involved in public procurement for the establishment, adoption and dissemination of green-procurement products and services for the good of the users and the environment in MED area.

More precisely, the partnership jointly declared they will cooperate on the following five points:

1. The cooperation between public and private actors involved directly or indirectly in public procurement in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources in the regions of MED is highly important, with a view to energy, economic, and social development of these regions. 2. The application of new green technologies is an important tool to facilitate lifelong energy consumption and impacts in the MED regions, increasing the competitiveness of SMEs and facilitating the public agencies in their energy needs and procurement. 3. They will stand helpers in supplying public agencies and SMEs platform GRASP with properly assessed, available and updated green products and services, where each user will have the ability to access green products guaranteeing the conditions of a smart green tool servicing the needs of our region. 4. They will give an opportunity for every professional to promote green products and services in a dynamic way for users, increasing the competitive advantage and promoting local, regional and cross-border sustainable development. 5. They will work harmoniously to create the right climate for continued green development efforts in interconnected MED regions, in order to consolidate the new MED concept offering international interaction and opportunities for sustainable development.

The declaration became official on the 3rd of March 2015, when it was signed by the GRASP partnership.

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15. Patras Agreement

Following the Perugia Declaration, and in order to seal the continuity of their cooperation, GRASP partners signed “Patras Agreement” in May 2015.

With this document, GRASP partnership agrees to continue with the main aims of the project in future, and collaborate with all the actions that the parties will perform. Sharing the same sensibility for the environment, GRASP partners are willing to achieve a more respectful economic system in Europe and want to place the emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.

The agreement has indefinite duration and its subject is to set up the duties and rights of the parties so that the continuity of the project can be implemented effectively, (hereinafter, the project). This project pursues an increase of the number of actions of ‘green public procurement' with the aim to improve the quality of life and the environment in MED ZONE. The document clarifies the obligations and the rates of the parties and establishes the creation of a Project Commission, which will decide on which particular projects will be undertaken by it, its particular budget line, if it is necessary, as well as on the activities that it should perform. Patras Agreement was signed by GRASP partnership on the 27th of May 2015, during GRASP Final Conference in Patras, Greece. Even though the event signaled the closure of GRASP project, Patras Agreement established the future cooperation of GRASP consortium towards “green” public procurement.

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For further information For further information do not hesitate to visit and contact us through : Â&#x; Â&#x;

GRASP website: www.grasp-med.eu GRASP social network profiles listed below

https://twitter.com/GraspMed

https://www.youtube.com/user/GraspMed

https://www.facebook.com/graspMed

https://www.linkedin.com/in/graspmed

You may also contact directly GRASP project Lead Partner:

University of Patras Professor Yorgos Stephanedes Project Leader and Coordinator ystephanedes@upatras.gr

Do not miss the opportunity to become part of the GRASP MED Community!

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