A more modern school and municipal office serving the community

Schools and municipal offices play an important role in the everyday life of any community. Sooner or later, most residents will visit these institutions for one reason or another — as students, teachers, employees or simply as citizens dealing with official matters. That is why the quality of the environment matters for everyone who uses these buildings.

In the village of Kéthely, the Joint Municipal Office and Széchenyi István Primary School were in need of major energy upgrades, as the buildings no longer met current energy-efficiency standards. With the help of European Union funding, the project aimed to make both public buildings more comfortable, sustainable and cost-effective to operate.

The renovation included a comprehensive range of energy-efficiency improvements designed to bring the buildings up to a “CC” energy rating. The external walls, plinths and attic floors were insulated, while the flat-roofed section of the school also received new insulation. Old and outdated windows and doors were replaced with modern, energy-efficient alternatives that help reduce heat loss.

Solar panels, upgraded heating systems and heat pump technology have also reduced the buildings’ reliance on fossil fuels, while allowing them to operate in a more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible way.

At the school, the project brought further improvements in both safety and functionality. The old corrugated roofing on the gymnasium was replaced, and materials containing asbestos were safely removed and professionally disposed of. Accessible toilet facilities were also installed to make the building easier to use for people with disabilities.

The benefits of the renovation are most evident in everyday use. As well as providing a more comfortable environment for students, staff and residents, the improvements have helped reduce energy costs — an important consideration in the long-term and efficient operation of the municipality.