Brno, 22 June 2026 – The Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) today officially received the completed energy-saving project implemented under the Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) model. With a total amount of CZK 45.8 million excluding VAT, the project will generate guaranteed savings of CZK 18.8 million excluding VAT over the next twelve years. The project was partially financed by the European Union through the National Recovery Plan, with funding totalling CZK 20.9 million. The ceremonial handover was attended by representatives of both central and local public administration, the representatives of the VRI and Amper Savings, a.s., the EPC project provider.
The project covered seven operationally distinct buildings within the VRI and resulted in a comprehensive modernization of the Institute’s technical infrastructure. The complex comprises laboratories and technologically demanding workplaces, experimental animal facilities, and operations subject to strict requirements for indoor environmental stability, ventilation, cooling, heating, and safe operation.
The project was implemented under the Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) model. Under this model, the energy service provider designs and implements energy-saving measures while contractually guaranteeing the achieved savings. VRI thus benefits from a modernized energy management system, along with the assurance that the agreed savings will be consistently achieved over the guarantee period.
“Modernizing the energy infrastructure of research institutions is important not only from the perspective of the efficient use of public funds, but also for ensuring the long-term stability of their operations. The VRI is a facility subject to exceptionally high technological and safety requirements. What is even more important is that a project has been successfully developed that combines energy savings, technological modernization, and the maintenance of a high standard of professional operations,” said Ing. Jaroslava Špalková, Deputy Minister at the Czech Ministry of Agriculture.
The project implementation phase took place from August 2025 to June 2026. The modernization measures included the insulation of the external walls and roof of the CTT building, along with the installation of external blinds. The air-handling units and cooling systems in the experimental animal facility were also upgraded. The project included the reconstruction of the heating system in two buildings, the installation of thermostatic valves and valve heads, and the installation of electrically controlled valve heads in selected rooms to enable individual temperature regulation. At the same time, the interior lighting was replaced, and the Institute was equipped with a 190 kWp photovoltaic power plant. A key component of the project is also the modernization of the measurement and control system, including remote monitoring.
“This project serves as an example for other state-established organisations, which, under new legislation, are encouraged to further modernize their buildings and facilities using the EPC model. The VRI is a highly specific institution comprising laboratories, animal housing facilities, and technological infrastructure, all subject to strict indoor environmental requirements. Thanks to the established timelines, we were able to complete the implementation while maintaining full operations, including during the winter period. We are now entering a phase in which we can gradually observe the real impact in the form of measurable guaranteed savings,” said Ing. Radek Vrána, General Manager and Board Member of Amper Savings, a.s.
The modernization focused on areas with a significant impact on both operating costs and indoor environmental quality. Average electricity consumption savings amount to 9%, while gas savings reach 20%. The project will also result in a reduction of CO₂ emissions by 1,640 tonnes.
“For our Institute, it was crucial that the project implementation respected the specific nature of scientific operations and limited disruptions to the continuity of work in individual departments to the minimum necessary period. The result is a more modern, more energy-efficient, and better controllable technical infrastructure that will support the stable operation of the Institute in the coming years,” added Doc. MVDr. Martin Faldyna, Ph.D., Director of the VRI. “The reduction of the Institute’s energy demand is associated with a significant improvement in its technical infrastructure. At the same time, we also view it as our contribution to environmental responsibility,” he added.
Following the ceremonial handover, a twelve-year guarantee period begins. During this time, Amper Savings will provide energy management services, monitor the achieved savings, and continuously evaluate the operation of the energy management system.
About the Veterinary Research Institute
The Veterinary Research Institute (VRI), is a public research institution established by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic, focusing on the protection of animal health, the prevention of zoonoses, and the safety of food of animal origin. The Institute’s research encompasses infectious and invasive diseases, microbiology and antimicrobial resistance, genetics, reproductive biotechnologies, pharmacology, toxicology, and food hygiene. The VRI operates a state-of-the-art research infrastructure and places a strong emphasis on applied research, including the development of diagnostic and preventive methods, vaccines, and probiotics. The Institute focuses strongly on the transfer of research results into practice, collaboration with industry partners, and the education of the professional community. The research results find applications in veterinary medicine, food safety, and the protection of both animal and human health.
About the Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) model
Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) is a model for delivering energy-saving projects where the achieved savings are contractually guaranteed by the energy service provider. The customer therefore gains assurance that the proposed and adopted measures will deliver tangible, measurable results.
About the Amper Savings, a.s.
Amper Savings, a.s. is part of the Czech Amper energy group, providing energy services, including the implementation of energy-saving projects using state-of-the-art technologies and the optimisation of clients’ energy systems. Projects typically involve a combination of advanced energy-saving technologies in heating, electricity generation, cooling, and lighting systems, together with technical and administrative measures aimed at optimising energy consumption and energy purchasing, in order to achieve the lowest possible operating costs.
Contact for Media
Ing. Ildikó Csölle PUTZOVÁ, Ph.D., MBA, Deputy Director for Management and Strategic Development, Mobile: +420 777 509 019, E-mail: csolle.putzova@vri.cz
Ing. et Bc. Dana Bartošová, Spokesperson, Mobile: +420 733 667 480, E-mail: bartosova@skupinaamper.cz
