The popular New Green Savings program (NZÚ) is getting a significant makeover this February. In a move to accelerate green home renovations, the Czech government will begin providing advance payments to all applicants, expanding a benefit previously limited to seniors and low-income households.
The reform consolidates three existing programs into two: the comprehensive “Fix Grandma’s House” renovation program and the NZÚ Light, which will now be accessible to all homeowners for partial reconstructions. “Providing financial support upfront significantly increases the chances of securing additional loans,” explains Environment Minister Petr Hladík, emphasizing the focus on supporting middle-income households.
The changes maintain particularly favorable conditions for low-income households, who can receive up to 80% coverage of costs up to 250,000 crowns. Other homeowners undertaking insulation projects can apply for up to 50% cost coverage, while smaller renovations will receive 30% support.
However, the ministry is scaling back solar panel subsidies, reducing support from 50% to 30% of expenses and limiting installations to 5 kWp – half the previous capacity. Additionally, heat pump subsidies will now require proof of adequate home insulation, protecting homeowners from potentially higher energy costs that poorly insulated homes might face.
These modifications apply exclusively to single-family homes, with apartment buildings remaining under existing regulations.