The Covid-19 restrictions have affected processes all over the world and also the implementation of the project implemented by BALTICFLOC, which was quite challenging in the pandemic conditions. Closing of borders in Europe and difficulties in delivery of international goods all over the world affected the planned deliveries of equipment for the production line, thus delaying its installation and dependent project activities. Assembly restrictions affected the activities related to face-to-face dissemination of information – international fairs were closed or postponed for an indefinite time, project networking measures. Networking measures were quickly resumed and completely switched to the online environment, while international fairs were much more difficult to organise online.
Taking into account savings on funds within the project, an extension of the period of implementation until 30 June 2023 was requested.
The letter received from the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency approved the project extension. Along with the extension, it is possible to fully implement the project in good quality, reach its objectives and summarise results. The main reason for the extension is extra time needed for the installation of the prototype production line, its testing, production and certification of the product test material, development of innovative material for demonstration in buildings in Latvia, the United Kingdom, Germany and Finland. These activities will provide data for environmental impact assessment and evaluation of the production and product lifecycle. The dissemination of results and extensive information of the public about project developments and results are extremely important in the project. It is safe to believe that the project does not happen without extensive information of the public and dissemination of results, and without results in the project, there is nothing to inform the public about and this extension is important for developing communication.
It should be taken into account that this production line is unique, it was not produced or installed before, and therefore the installation of the prototype production line is the most important and the most extensive activity of the project. After new project deadlines are approved, this activity is expected to be completed by the end of May 2022. It will be followed by certification of the new product and approval of the environmentally friendly technology, which may last up to 7 months. In parallel, the project team will work on business planning and licencing of the technology. Since the project implementer is a private company, one of the most important activities, on which attention of the European Commission is focused, is multiplication and transfer of the technology. This section provides for licencing of the technology allowing for the simple introduction of the technology in other companies across Europe. The demonstration heat insulation of buildings in target markets plan to make it visible and reach into other European countries, it will be the main point of repulsion for marketing activities and talks with potential customers and cooperation partners. Such demo buildings are expected to be installed also in Latvia by the end of 2022.
