In Hungary, like in most New Member States that have joined the EU since 2004, there are numerous residential buildings which had been built by industrialised construction technology (so called “Soviet-type blocks of flats” or panel blocks). These buildings operate with outdated energy systems, with minimal or no isolation, and outdated windows. Low energy efficiency causes higher CO2 emission, and due to the higher energy demand leads to higher operational costs. Increasing energy prices make long-term sustainability of these buildings a serious problem for owners and residents, most of whom have low income. 

STACCATO is an acronym that stands for Sustainable Technologies And Combined Community Approaches Take Off. The project articulates the need for a transition to a sustainable energy supply in existing residential housing areas.