The project “Implementation of Energy Efficiency Measures in the Historic Building of the Latvian National Opera” has been completed at the Latvian National Opera, with Pillar Contractor carrying out extensive upgrades to the building’s engineering systems and restoration works throughout the historic building. The completion of the project was marked by an event at the Latvian National Opera on 7 September.

During the project, the electrical installations, heating, ventilation and cooling systems, as well as the water supply and sewerage systems, were upgraded. These systems had not been replaced during the previous reconstruction and had reached the end of their technical service life. The works also included roof insulation and the restoration of structural elements and the historic interior in connection with the energy efficiency improvements. Wall and ceiling surfaces were restored, lighting fixtures appropriate to the historic interior were installed, and the restoration of wallpaper and floor tiling was completed.

One of the key challenges in implementing the project was to reconcile modern requirements for energy efficiency, safety and engineering systems with the need to preserve the historic authenticity of a nationally significant architectural monument. The renovation and restoration works respected the original materials, technologies and historic construction techniques. As a result, the building’s indoor climate and working conditions have been improved, while creating the conditions for its sustainable operation in the future.

The project was particularly complex because the works were carried out while the Latvian National Opera and Ballet continued its operations.

The project was financed by the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility and the state budget. The total cost of the Latvian National Opera building development project amounts to EUR 12,505,202.97, of which EUR 10,330,983.77 was provided through the Recovery and Resilience Facility and EUR 2,174,219.20 from the state budget.