Access to clean water is a fundamental need—but when water infrastructure is outdated and inefficient, it can become a serious financial burden. The municipality of Ostrovany has long been facing this challenge, particularly in two apartment buildings inhabited by marginalised Roma families, where monthly water costs have reached approximately €2000. The primary cause: damaged, outdated internal water systems.
To address this issue, a working meeting was held under the leadership of Mayor Rastislav Popusa, bringing together experts from RESDI and the energy consultancy Innovative Energy to develop concrete, sustainable solutions.
Understanding the Core Problem
The two affected apartment buildings, constructed in the 1980s, are experiencing significant water loss due to aging and defective internal plumbing systems particularly vertical risers and distribution lines. This not only increases municipal costs, but also prevents residents from having consistent, affordable access to basic utilities.
Planned Interventions
1. Targeted Infrastructure Repairs
A plan is being developed to replace the damaged pipes and risers, restore proper functionality, and reduce water losses. Importantly, the repairs will be carried out with the active participation of local residents, using a self-help model under the guidance of a qualified expert. This approach not only lowers costs but also promotes skills development and community ownership.
2. Energy and Water Audit by Innovative Energy
Specialists from Innovative Energy have conducted a comprehensive energy audit for both apartment buildings. The audit provides a clear technical assessment of the current state of energy systems and identifies specific investment needs required for repair and long-term efficiency. These insights form the basis for technical planning and funding applications.
3. Participatory Planning and Community Engagement
RESDI is conducting interviews and consultations with residents to ensure that all interventions are aligned with local needs and conditions. Community engagement remains central to our approach ensuring transparency, ownership, and practical impact.
Building a Model for Inclusive Infrastructure Renewal
This initiative is more than a technical fix—it’s an opportunity to demonstrate how local governments can combine sustainability, cost-efficiency, and social inclusion. By involving residents directly in the repair process, the municipality is fostering ownership, accountability, and empowerment, while addressing long-term infrastructure challenges.
Through this partnership, Ostrovany has the potential to become a model for other municipalities facing similar challenges. The integrated approach—linking technical audits, participatory repairs, and community consultation—shows that inclusive development is both practical and scalable.
Stay tuned for progress updates as RESDI and its partners support the transformation of Ostrovany’s housing infrastructure through sustainable, community-led solutions.