Latvia: Summary
Updated: 18.01.2019
Support schemes
In Latvia, heating and cooling from renewable energy sources is promoted through different tax benefits.
More about support schemesGrid issues
Installations producing heat from renewable energy sources (RES) are not given priority connection, and there is no special legislation promoting the connection of RES heating facilities to the heat transmission network at the national level. However, heat suppliers and producers shall comply with economic and social law and the legislation on environmental protection and the preservation of cultural heritage. There are regulations at the regional level that establish rules for and promote high energy performance and competition in the heat supply market.
In October 2016, the Cabinet of the Ministers approved Requirements for injection of biomethane, as well as liquefied natural gas into the natural gas transmission system. These regulations provide the renewable energy industry with the opportunity to engage in gas supply and sale, using the existing Latvian natural gas pipeline infrastructure. Since 3 April 2017, the Latvian gas market has been fully liberalised for companies, and full opening of the gas market for domestic users is planned to be completed until 2019.
More about grid issuesPolicies
There are two policies promoting the development, installation and use of RES installations: the certification scheme for RES system installers and an obligation to consider usage of renewable heating and cooling systems in new and renovated buildings.
More about policies
Latvia