Green Real Estate in Georgia: Standards and Subsidies

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Faced with growing climate challenges, Georgia is resolutely positioning itself toward a more sustainable future, particularly through the development of green real estate. By implementing new ecological standards, the government aims to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings while encouraging real estate developers to adopt more environmentally friendly practices. To achieve these ambitious goals, a set of attractive subsidies will be available until 2025, incentivizing innovation and investment in energy-efficient buildings. This enthusiasm for green real estate in Georgia represents not only an economic opportunity but also a significant step toward more sustainable and environmentally respectful urban development.

Eco-construction in Georgia: An Overview of Trends

Sustainable Materials and Green Technologies

Eco-construction in Georgia is characterized by a growing adoption of sustainable materials, such as local timber, rammed earth, and recycled bricks. Builders are also favoring innovative solutions like natural insulation panels to reduce the carbon footprint. At the same time, green technologies, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, are increasingly being integrated into new buildings.

Positive Energy Buildings

Demand for positive energy buildings is rising, especially in urban areas like Tbilisi and Batumi. These structures, designed to produce more energy than they consume, attract investors focused on sustainability. Pilot projects show significant potential, although initial costs remain a barrier for some developers.

Government Initiatives

The Georgian government encourages eco-construction through subsidies and tax incentives, particularly for projects using renewable energy. Stricter building standards are gradually being implemented, aligned with European standards. These measures aim to stimulate innovation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Local and International Players

The sector benefits from the involvement of local players, such as small businesses specializing in ecological materials, and international investors attracted by the potential of the Georgian market. Partnerships with European firms facilitate the transfer of technology and expertise.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite these advances, challenges persist, such as a lack of skilled labor and the high cost of ecological materials. However, the growth of sustainable tourism and the interest of younger generations in green housing open up new opportunities for the sector.

Good to know:

In Georgia, eco-construction is experiencing significant growth with an increasing adoption of sustainable materials such as certified timber and recycled concrete, as well as the integration of green technologies like photovoltaic solar systems and geothermal energy in new buildings. Positive energy buildings, which generate more energy than they consume, are gaining popularity, driven by government initiatives offering subsidies and tax incentives to developers and builders engaged in eco-responsible projects. Local and international players, including foreign firms specializing in sustainable construction, are actively participating in this movement, although the sector faces challenges such as the high cost of advanced technologies and still-developing regulations. Nevertheless, these obstacles also present opportunities to develop innovative solutions and stimulate the country’s green economy, fostering a more sustainable future for the Georgian construction industry.

Subsidies for Renewable Energy in Georgia

Subsidies for Renewable Energy in Georgia

Georgia offers several types of subsidies to support renewable energy projects, including tax incentives and government support programs. Key aids include VAT exemptions for importing solar and wind equipment, as well as tax credits for investments in green infrastructure.

Government programs, such as the Renewable Energy Development Fund, allocate subsidies that can cover up to 50% of the total cost of eligible projects. In 2023, over 20 million GEL were set aside to support solar and hydroelectric initiatives. Eligibility criteria include a minimum production capacity (typically 1 MW) and predominant use of local technologies.

Impact on Green Real Estate

These subsidies have spurred the development of sustainable real estate projects, such as the Green Towers residential complex in Tbilisi, which integrates solar panels and an advanced energy management system. Developers benefit from reduced initial costs, making green buildings more accessible to investors.

However, challenges persist, including complex administrative procedures and delays in fund disbursement. Some developers also report a lack of transparency in application evaluations, limiting access to subsidies for small projects. Despite these obstacles, public aid remains a key lever for accelerating the energy transition in the Georgian real estate sector.

Good to know:

In Georgia, renewable energy projects can benefit from various subsidies, including tax incentives and government support programs such as tax credits for installing solar panels or wind turbines, covering up to 30% of initial costs. Eligibility criteria often require projects to meet specific sustainability standards and be registered with the relevant authorities. The government has allocated significant amounts for these subsidies; for example, in 2023, over 10 million lari were dedicated to supporting green technologies. This has had a tangible impact on green real estate development, as seen with the Tbilisi Eco-Living residential complex, which managed to reduce its energy costs by 40% thanks to these aids. However, real estate developers must navigate complex administrative procedures and extended approval timelines, sometimes limiting effective access to these subsidies.

Standards and Certifications: Focus on BREEAM Certification

Key Criteria for BREEAM Certification in Georgia

To obtain BREEAM certification in Georgia, a building must meet key criteria such as energy efficiency, water management, sustainable materials, and indoor air quality. Local particularities include adaptation to the country’s varied climatic conditions, such as harsh winters and hot summers, as well as the use of local resources to reduce the carbon footprint.

Certification Process and Performance Levels

The process includes an assessment by an accredited auditor, covering areas like health, energy, and innovation. Performance levels range from Pass to Outstanding, encouraging developers to aim for high standards. In Georgia, this approach enhances sustainability and reduces long-term energy costs.

Examples of Certified Projects in Georgia

Projects like the Green Valley Residential Complex in Tbilisi illustrate the benefits of BREEAM: a 30% reduction in energy consumption and increased property value. These achievements demonstrate economic advantages (lower operating costs) and environmental benefits (reduced emissions).

Government Policy and Subsidies

The Georgian government encourages the adoption of BREEAM through tax incentives and subsidies for green projects, aligned with its 2025 real estate strategy. These measures aim to mainstream sustainable construction, thereby strengthening the sector’s competitiveness.

Good to know:

In Georgia, the BREEAM certification, globally recognized for assessing building sustainability, requires constructions to achieve a high level of performance in energy efficiency, water management, occupant health and well-being, and waste reduction. Locally, adaptations to international standards include specific considerations for Georgian climatic conditions and available construction materials. The process for obtaining BREEAM includes an assessment by an accredited auditor and is divided into several performance levels, from Pass to Outstanding, directly influencing the sustainability of buildings. Exemplary projects like the “Green Building Resort” in Tbilisi illustrate the successes of this certification, reducing energy costs and improving environmental impact. By supporting this approach, the Georgian government integrates BREEAM into its sustainable construction policies for 2025, offering subsidies to developers who adopt these standards, thereby increasing the economic appeal of adhering to rigorous ecological standards.

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About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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