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![european flag](./../../../images/eclogo.jpg)EUROPEAN COMMISSION

Brussels, 23.10.2023

COM(2023) 685 final

2023/0387(NLE)

Proposal for a

COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING DECISION

amending Implementing Decision (EU) (ST 10477/21 INIT; ST 10477/21 ADD 1) of 20 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Lithuania

{SWD(2023) 347 final}

2023/0387 (NLE)

Proposal for a

COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING DECISION

amending Implementing Decision (EU) (ST 10477/21 INIT; ST 10477/21 ADD 1) of 20 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Lithuania

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2021/241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 February 2021 establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility
[1](#footnote2)
, and in particular Article 20(1) thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,

Whereas:

(1)Following the submission of the national recovery and resilience plan (‘RRP’) by Lithuania on 14 May 2021, the Commission proposed its positive assessment to the Council. The Council approved the positive assessment by means of the Council Implementing Decision of 28 July 2021
[2](#footnote3)
.

(2)Pursuant to Article 11(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the maximum financial contribution for non-repayable financial support of each Member State should be updated by 30 June 2022 in accordance with the methodology provided therein. On 30 June 2022, the Commission presented the results of that update to the European Parliament and the Council.

(3)On 30 June 2023, Lithuania submitted a modified national RRP, including a REPowerEU chapter in accordance with Article 21c of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, to the Commission.

(4)The modified RRP also takes into account the updated maximum financial contribution in accordance with Article 18(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 and includes a reasoned request to the Commission to propose to the Council to amend the Council Implementing Decision in accordance with Article 21(1) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 considering the RRP to be partially no longer achievable due to objective circumstances. The modifications to the RRP submitted by Lithuania concern 46 (sub‑)measures.

(5)On 14 July 2023, the Council addressed recommendations to Lithuania in the context of the European Semester. In particular, the Council recommended that Lithuania takes action to wind down emergency energy support measures, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the deployment of renewables; to strengthen healthcare, social services and improve social housing: and to continue the rapid implementation of the recovery and resilience plan and cohesion policy programmes. 

(6)The submission of the modified RRP followed a consultation process, conducted in accordance with the national legal framework, involving local and regional authorities, social partners, civil society organisations, youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders. The summary of the consultations was submitted together with the modified national RRP. Pursuant to Article 19 of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the Commission assessed the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and coherence of the modified RRP, in accordance with the assessment guidelines set out in Annex V to that Regulation.

Loan request based on Article 14 of Regulation 2021/241

(7)The modified RRP submitted by Lithuania includes a request for loan support to support six measures.

(8)In component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania), Lithuania proposed to add a reform aiming to mobilise public and private finance to meet climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives and to increase Lithuania’s attractiveness for investors in green financial products. This is expected to be achieved through the Lithuanian Green Finance Action Plan 2023-2026. Additionally, the Green Finance and Knowledge Centre, which is an implementing action of the Green Finance Action Plan 2023-2026, aims to contribute to the development of a sustainable labelling ecosystem in Lithuania on the basis of international practices, ensure the dissemination of relevant sustainability-related information, coordinate cooperation between the public and private sectors and academia and promote Lithuania in the field of sustainable finance.

(9)In component 5 (Higher Education, a Coherent Framework for Stimulating Research and Innovation and High Value-Added Business), Lithuania proposed to add an investment providing for the setting up of a financial instrument with the aim to provide either syndicated and subordinated loans or direct loans to, among others, enterprises for the development of green industrial technologies and high value-added industrial development. The relevant investment targets businesses and aims to support social and territorial cohesion as well as smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. 

(10)In component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic), Lithuania proposed to add a reform to improve centralized public procurement via the Central Purchasing Organization, and a new investment in the form of a capital injection of EUR 150 million to INVEGA (Lithuanian National Promotion Institution) which is expected to improve the access to finance in Lithuania.

(11)In component 7 (More Opportunities for Everyone to Actively Build National Well-Being), Lithuania proposed to add a reform aiming to reduce the fragmentation of the planning and delivery of social, employment and other related services as well as to enhance the competences of social workers

(12)In component 8 (REPowerEU), Lithuania proposed to add an investment consisting of the implementation of a financial instrument to promote the deployment of renewable energy. The investment consists of a public investment in a Fund to provide loan support to private entities, as well as to public sector entities engaged in similar activities, for the roll-out of solar and wind onshore electricity production capacity.

Updates based on Article 18(2) of Regulation 2021/241

(13)The modified RRP submitted by Lithuania updates two sub-measures to take into account the updated maximum financial contribution which decreased from EUR 2 224 195 119
[3](#footnote4)
 to EUR 2 099 135 822
[4](#footnote5)
. In accordance with Article 21c(2), Member States that are subject to a decrease in the maximum financial contribution may also include in the REPowerEU chapters measures included in the already adopted Council implementing decisions without having them scaled-up, up to an amount of estimated costs equal to that decrease.

(14)On that basis, two targets from one sub-measure and one target of another sub-measure under component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania) are modified by Lithuania. In particular, this modification concerns target 23 and target 24 on the creation of new electricity generation capacity from renewable energy sources (Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities) as part of investment B.1.1.2 and target 49 on the area of demonstration buildings renovated with the aim to reduce energy consumption (Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities) as part of investment B.1.3.1. Targets 23 and 24 should be removed from sub-measure B.1.1.2. and introduced to sub-measure H.1.3.2 (REPowerEU). In addition, target 49 should be removed from sub-measure B.1.3.1. and introduced to sub-measure H.1.1.1 (REPowerEU). The Council implementing decisions should be amended accordingly.

Amendments based on Article 21 of Regulation 2021/241

(15)The amendments to the RRP submitted by Lithuania because of objective circumstances concern 44 (sub-)measures.

(16)Lithuania has explained that five (sub-)measures are no longer totally achievable, because of high inflation. Both price and wage inflation in Lithuania have been consistently high between late 2021 to late 2022, which resulted in increased costs, for example of construction and equipment thus affecting the timelines and level of ambition of projects under the RRP. This concerns, respectively, target 20 of sub-measure A.1.3.3 (Modernisation of emergency departments and resuscitation units in regional hospitals) under Component 1 (A Resilient and Future-proof Health System), targets 53 and 54 of sub-measure B.1.3.4 (Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards), targets 55 and 56 of measure B.1.4 (Increasing GHG absorption capacity) under Component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania), target 98 of sub-measure D.1.1.4 (Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff) under Component 4 (Quality and Accessible Education for the Entire Life-Cycle) and target 189 of sub-measure G.1.2.2 (Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy) under Component 7 (More Opportunities for Everyone to Actively Build National Well-Being). On this basis, Lithuania has requested to amend the aforementioned milestones and targets, and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(17)Lithuania has explained that three (sub-)measures are no longer totally achievable, because of supply chain disruptions. Supply chain disruptions and the corresponding difficulties in obtaining components for the implementation of projects have strongly affected the production and operation of biofuels and green hydrogen, the roll-out of very high capacity networks and the development of innovative solutions in transport. This concerns, respectively, target 46 and target 47 of sub-measure B.1.2.4 (Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) under Component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania), targets 86, 87 and 88 of sub-measure C.1.5.2 (Further development of very high capacity networks) and target 90 of sub-measure C.1.5.3 (Innovation in mobility) under Component 3 (Digital Transformation for Growth). The proposed amendments to sub-measure C.1.5.2 (Further development of very high capacity networks) also represent a manifestly better alternative of implementing the project. On this basis, Lithuania has requested to amend the timeline of the aforementioned milestones and targets and to make the aforementioned changes, and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(18)Lithuania has explained that three (sub-)measures are no longer totally achievable within the initial timeframe due to an unforeseen need for developers to review their initial plan in order to safeguard the quality and safety of the project. This concerns milestone 7 of sub-measure A.1.1.7 (Creation of Centre for Advanced Therapies), milestone 10 of sub-measure A.1.1.9 (Establishment of a Health Professionals Competence Platform), target 11 of sub-measure A.1.1.10 (Development of healthcare quality assessment model) under Component 1 (A Resilient and Future-proof Health System). On this basis, Lithuania has requested to extend the implementation timeline of the aforementioned milestone and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(19)Lithuania has explained that three (sub-)measures are no longer totally achievable, because of changed market demand. For instance, the interest of municipalities in participating in projects such as specific cashless infrastructure for payments in schools, the demand for language courses for foreign students or the number of universities participating in international networks turned out to be lower than expected. This concerns, respectively, targets 124 and 125 of sub-measure E.1.1.3 (Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions), target 130 of sub-measure E.1.2.2 (Increasing the demand for innovation in Lithuania by exploiting the potential of public procurement) under Component 5 (Higher Education, a Coherent Framework for Stimulating Research and Innovation and High Value-Added Business), and targets 159 and 160 of sub-measure F.1.4.4 (Financially literate future taxpayers) under Component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic). On this basis, Lithuania has requested to amend the aforementioned milestones and targets, and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(20)Lithuania has explained that six (sub-)measures are no longer (totally) achievable within the initial timeframe, because of a delay in the procurement process outside of the control of national authorities. Such delays are the result of, for example, unforeseen obstacles in procuring the needed materials, unforeseen energy price increases combined with lack of local renewable energy production, or lack of market participation justifying the need to amend the scope of the public procurement procedure. This concerns, respectively, target 19 of sub-measure A.1.3.2 (Modernisation of Centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases) under Component 1 (A Resilient and Future-proof Health System), target 22 of sub-measure B.1.1.1 (Preparatory work for the development of offshore wind power plants and related infrastructure), milestone 30 of measure B.1.2 (Moving without polluting the environment), target 52 of sub-measure B.1.3.3 (Promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings) under Component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania), milestone 138 of sub-measure F.1.1.1 (Modernization of human resources management system in the public sector) under Component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic), target 187 of sub-measure G.1.2.1 (Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation) under Component 7 (More Opportunities for Everyone to Actively Build National Well-Being). On this basis, Lithuania has requested to amend the aforementioned milestones, and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(21)Lithuania has explained that for 24 (sub-)measures the proposed revisions constitute a manifestly better alternative of implementing the project. More efficient ways were found to implement the same measures, as a result of which costs were cut, deadlines were frontloaded or the scope and ambition of measures was increased. This concerns, respectively, milestone 1 of sub-measure A.1.1.1 (Legislative framework regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services), the description of sub-measure A.1.1.11 (Digitalisation of the healthcare sector) under Component 1 (A Resilient and Future-proof Health System), targets 31, 32 and 33 of sub-measure B.1.2.1. (Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business), target 36 of sub-measure B.1.2.2 (Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles), target 41 of sub-measure B.1.2.3 (Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure) and target 51 of sub-measure B.1.3.2 (Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance) under Component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania), milestones 59, 60, targets 61, 62, and 63 of sub-measure C.1.1 (Transformation of public information technology governance), target 67 of sub-measure C.1.2 (Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data), the description of sub-measure C.1.3 (Customer-oriented services), milestone 74 and target 75 of sub-measure C.1.4.1 (Development of Lithuanian language technological resources), milestone 76 and target 77 of sub-measure C.1.4.2 (Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources), and target 82 of sub-measure C.1.4.5 (ICT Centre of Excellence) under Component 3 (Digital Transformation for Growth), the description of measure D.1.1 (Modern General Education – Background to Competitive Competences), milestone 99 of sub-measure D.1.1.4 (Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff), milestone 115 of sub-measure D.1.4.2 (Assessment of competences) under Component 4 (Quality and Accessible Education for the Entire Life-Cycle), target 131 of sub-measure E.1.2.3. (Fostering the development of the start-up ecosystem) under Component 5 (Higher Education, a Coherent Framework for Stimulating Research and Innovation and High Value-Added Business), the description of measure F.1.1. (An Efficient Public Sector), milestone 139 of sub-measure F.1.1.2 (Establishment of a centralised training system for developing competences in the public sector), milestone 140 and target 141 of sub-measure F.1.1.3 (Establishment of a framework for the development of strategic competences in the public sector), milestones 148 and 149 of sub-measure F.1.3.1 (Improvements to the budgetary framework), milestone 150 of sub-measure F.1.3.2 (Spending reviews), milestone 154 of sub-measure F.1.3.5 (Consolidation of the national development institutions) under Component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic), milestone 164 of measure F.1.5 (Tools available to business to manage insolvency risk) under Component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic), and milestone 184 of sub-measure G.1.1.2 (Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits) under Component 7 (More Opportunities For Everyone to Actively Build National Well-Being). On this basis, Lithuania has requested to amend the aforementioned milestones and targets and to make the aforementioned changes, and the Council Implementing Decision should be amended accordingly.

(22)The Commission considers that the reasons put forward by Lithuania justify the update pursuant to Article 18(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 and the amendment pursuant to Article 21(2) of that Regulation.

Corrections of clerical errors

(23)Clerical errors have been identified in the text of the Council Implementing Decision, affecting nine milestones and targets and 17 (sub-)measures. The Council Implementing Decision should be amended to correct those clerical errors that do not reflect the content of the RRP submitted to the Commission on 14 May 2021, as agreed between the Commission and Lithuania. Those clerical errors relate to milestone 2 of sub-measure A.1.1.2 (Development of digital health system facilitating the secondary use of health data), milestone 4 of sub-measure A.1.1.4. (Establishment of a basic public health service delivery model), target 8 and target 9 of sub-measure A.1.1.8 (Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “Genome Europe”), measure A.1.2 (Provision of long-term care services) and milestone 15 of sub-measure A.1.2.1 (Adoption of the long-term care model) under Component 1 (A Resilient and Future-Proof Health Systemsub-measure C.1.4.3 (Production of digital education content and resources), sub-measure C.1.4.4 (Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation), sub-measure C.1.5.1 (5G roadmap), sub-measure D.1.1.3. (Millennium School programme), sub-measure D.1.1.7 (Improving early childchood education and care), measure D.1.4. (Competences for Green and Digital Transformation Acquired in Vocational Education and Training), sub-measure D.1.4.1. (National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training), and sub-measure D.1.4.4. (Mobility programme) under Component 4 (Quality and Accessible Education for the Entire Life-Cycle), target 123 of sub-measure E.1.1.2 (Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges) under Component 5 (Higher Education, a Coherent Framework for Stimulating Research and Innovation and High Value-Added Business), milestone 153 of sub-measure F.1.3.4 (Promoting public-private partnerships), milestone 175 of sub-measure F.1.7.1. (Creation of a solution to enable e-receipts) under Component 6 (Efficient Public Sector and Preconditions to Recover After The Pandemic), and milestone 180 of sub-measure G.1.1.1 (Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation) under Component 7 (More Opportunities for Everyone to Actively Build National Well-Being). Those corrections do not affect the implementation of the measures concerned.

The REPowerEU chapter based on Article 21c of Regulation 2021/241

(24)The REPowerEU chapter includes one reform and three investments.

(25)The reform (H.1.3.) aims at improving the investment environment for developers of renewable energy sources. In particular, the reform aims at streamlining and speeding up permitting and other administrative processes, including by reducing the number of required permits, shortening the timeframe for obtaining them and regulating hybrid power plants (H.1.3.1.). Additionally, the reform is expected to contribute to reaching full electricity generation from renewable energy sources in Lithuania by analysing various modelling scenarios and developing a transformation model of the Lithuanian electricity sector. Furthermore, the reform aims to provide support to either legal entities, farmers, renewable energy communities or citizen energy communities for the acquisition and installation of onshore solar and wind power plants, prioritising self-consumption, farming or economic needs (H.1.3.2.). The reform effectively contributes to the REPowerEU objectives, as set out in Article 21c(3), points (b) and (e) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, through proposals on necessary actions to further develop the Lithuanian renewable electricity generation capacity, proposals to achieve an equivalent of 100% of total national electricity consumption generated from renewable energy sources, and by providing support for the creation of additional renewable energy generation capacity,

(26)The REPowerEU chapter increases the funding for renovation of multi-apartment buildings, which improves the energy efficiency of buildings and reduces heating costs for residents. In this way, it contributes to an extent towards reducing energy poverty often experienced by socio-economically disadvantaged groups. 

(27)The new investments under the REPowerEU Chapter include: (i) support for accelerating the renovation of buildings (H.1.1), (ii) support for the purchase of clean inland water vehicles (H.1.2.), (iii) loan support to increase the generation capacity from RES (H.3.1.). The first investment (H.1.1.) contains two elements: (i) update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards (H.1.1.1.); and (ii) support for renovation of multi-apartment buildings to increase energy efficiency (to class A) (H.1.1.2.). The first element (H.1.1.1) consists of green renovation demonstration projects, using new, industrialised heat-assembled insulation systems from organic raw materials, as well as building information modelling technologies that combine all construction processes. Under the second element (H.1.1.2.), support is provided in the form of a compensation of on average at least 30% of works expenditure, the compensation of loans having an interest rate above 3%, and 100% compensation of expenditure incurred for technical assistance, which includes preparation, administration and the maintenance costs of the projects. The second investment (H.1.2.) supports the purchase and delivery of equipment necessary for the zero-emission inland waterway transport. The third investment (H.3.1.) consists of loan support to business entities (including public entities engaged in similar activities as the private entities) to invest in projects supporting the creation of additional renewable energy sources generation capacity (solar and wind).

(28)The aforementioned investments are expected to contribute to supporting the objectives in Article 21c(3), points (b), (c) and (e) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, by providing support for zero-emission transport solutions, and by providing loan support for the creation of additional renewable energy sources generation capacity.

(29)The Commission has assessed the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter against the assessment criteria laid down in Article 19(3) of Regulation 2021/241.

Balanced response contributing to the six pillars

(30)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (a), of and Annex V, criterion 2.1, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter represents to a large extent (Rating A) a comprehensive and adequately balanced response to the economic and social situation, thereby contributing appropriately to all of the six pillars referred to in Article 3 of that Regulation, taking into account the specific challenges faced by and the financial allocation for the Member State concerned.

(31)The Commission considers that the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter positively impacts the contribution of the RRP to the first pillar on the green transition, as the REPowerEU chapter contributes nearly 100% to the green objectives. For the other pillars, the nature and extent of the proposed modifications to the RRP do not have an impact on the previous assessment of the plan representing to a large extent a comprehensive and adequately balanced response to the economic and social situation, and on its appropriate contribution to all six pillars referred to in Article 3 of Regulation (EU) 2021/241. Regarding the green transition pillar, Lithuania’s modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter further addresses green challenges, in particular under Component 2 (Green Transformation of Lithuania) and the newly added Component 8 (REPowerEU chapter). Under Component 2, the modified RRP increases the ambition of some existing investments, namely in the field of transport. The component further includes a new reform on the promotion of green finance through a Green Finance Action Plan. The reform also includes the creation of a Green Finance Knowledge and Competence Centre. Under Component 8, measures on permitting procedures, renewable energy deployment, multi-apartment building renovations and green pilot projects for building renovations, as well as clean inland waterways transport contribute to achieving the Union’s 2030 climate targets and to the objective of EU climate neutrality by 2050.

Addressing all or a significant subset of challenges identified in country-specific recommendations

(32)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (b), of and Annex V, criterion 2.2, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is expected to contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of challenges (Rating A) identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations addressed to Lithuania, including fiscal aspects thereof, or challenges identified in other relevant documents officially adopted by the Commission in the context of the European Semester.

(33)In particular, the modified RRP takes into account country-specific recommendations formally adopted by the Council prior to its submission. As the size of the plan increased following an additional loan request, all 2022 and 2023 structural recommendations are considered in the overall assessment.

(34)Having assessed progress in the implementation of all relevant country-specific recommendations at the time of submission of the modified national RRP, the Commission finds that the recommendation on consolidating research and innovation implementing agencies (2019.3.8) was fully implemented. Substantial progress has been achieved with respect to the recommendations on mitigating the impact of the crisis on employment (2020.2.1), on enhancing investment to boost growth potential (2021.1.3), on expanding public investment for the green and digital transitions and for energy security (2022.1.2) and on ensuring sufficient capacity of energy interconnections (2022.4.5).

(35)The modified RRP includes an extensive set of mutually reinforcing reforms and investments that contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the economic and social challenges outlined in the country-specific recommendations addressed to Lithuania by the Council in the context of the European Semester. Although the modified plan proposes some changes in the substance of the current measures, they do not affect the previous assessment of the coverage of a significant subset of the challenges identified in the country-specific recommendations of 2019 and 2020. 

(36)The key measures in the modified RRP, including in the REPowerEU chapter, contribute to reinforcing the ambition of the plan with regards to 2022 CSR 4 to reduce overall reliance on fossil fuels by accelerating the deployment of renewables, increasing energy efficiency and decarbonisation of industry, transport and buildings, and ensure sufficient capacity of energy interconnections, and with regards to 2023 CSR 4 to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels and imported energy by accelerating the deployment of renewables, and step up policy efforts aimed at the provision and acquisition of the skills needed for the green transition.

(37)In particular, the new investments and reforms aim at addressing the key challenges related to reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and promoting the take-up of renewable energy sources. The investment in the financial instrument aiming at increasing the production capacity from RES should contribute to the sufficient capacity of energy interconnections through increased electricity generation within the country. Legislative changes proposed in the reform of the REPowerEU chapter aiming at streamlining and speeding up permitting and other administrative processes, including by reducing the number of required permits, shortening the timeframe for obtaining them and regulating hybrid power plants should contribute towards ensuring sufficient grid capacity and access. Moreover, the scaled-up investment to support multi-apartment building renovations will significantly contribute to increasing the energy efficiency and decarbonisation of buildings, thus also contributing to an extent to energy poverty reduction. Finally, the modified plan includes an investment in clean mobility targeting the purchase of clean inland water vehicles which is expected to contribute to the decarbonisation of transport.

(38)In addition to the REPowerEU chapter, the modified plan also includes several new reforms aimed at addressing to a certain extent a subset of the 2022 and 2023 CSRs. First, with regard to the CSR on increasing the quality and improving planning and delivery of social services, the RRP includes a reform aimed at improving the quality, integration and personalisation of social and employment services. Second, with regard to the 2022 CSR 1 on fostering co-operative public procurement at central government and municipality levels, the plan includes a reform aimed at expanding the product list that could be purchased via the Central Purchasing Organisation (CPO) and preparing a plan for centralization of public procurement of health institutions and agencies.

Contribution to growth potential, job creation and economic, social and institutional resilience

(39)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (c), of and Annex V, criterion 2.3, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is expected to have a high impact (Rating A) on strengthening the growth potential, job creation, and economic, social and institutional resilience of Lithuania, contributing to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, including through the promotion of policies for children and youth, and on mitigating the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 crisis, thereby enhancing the economic, social and territorial cohesion and convergence within the Union.

(40)The initial assessment of the RRP, in accordance with Article 19(3), point (c), of and Annex V, criterion 2.3, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241 found that the RRP is expected to have a high impact (Rating A) on strengthening the growth potential, job creation, and economic, social and institutional resilience of Lithuania, contributing to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, including through the promotion of policies for children and youth, and on mitigating the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 crisis, thereby enhancing the economic, social and territorial cohesion and convergence within the Union.

(41)Stylised simulations by the Commission services show that, compared to the baseline scenario in the original RRP, the new interventions funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility loan will result in a higher GDP level of 0.4% on average over the period 2024-2027, independent from the positive impact that the included structural reforms or other new measures funded by the grant may have. The latter effects were incorporated in the Lithuania’s projections and, according to the information presented in Lithuania’s amendment request, the new interventions included in the modified RRP will result in a higher GDP level of 0.97% on average, or EUR 492,5 million per year, over the period 2023-2027. Lithuania’s projections also show a modest positive social impact of the new measures included in the modified RRP (the employment rate is projected to increase by 0.32%) and a slightly negative fiscal impact (the effect on the general government budget balance is estimated to be -0.27% of GDP) over the 2023-2027 period.

(42)The newly introduced reforms and investments in the modified plan contribute to accelerating the green transition and energy independence, which is expected to have a positive impact on Lithuania’s growth potential as well as on its economic and institutional resilience. The modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter introduces under Investment 2 of component E.2 a financial instrument providing loans to enterprises to acquire and develop green and high-added value technologies for industrial development. As the measure is expected to primarily target small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and larger enterprises in sectors with difficulties in obtaining financial aid from traditional financial institutions, it should mobilise the necessary funding and strengthen the production capacity of the Lithuanian industry.

(43)As regards the social impact of the modified plan, the key reform focused on social services is Reform 1 of component G.3 on improving the quality of social and employment services. With its aim to reduce the fragmentation of the planning and delivery of such services, the reform is expected to tackle a weakness of the current social protection system. The reform as a whole is expected to reinforce the social impact of the plan and increase its contribution to social cohesion.

Do no significant harm

(44)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (d), of and Annex V, criterion 2.4, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is expected to ensure that no measure (Rating A) for the implementation of reforms and investments projects included in this RRP does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council
[5](#footnote6)
 (the principle of ‘do no significant harm’).

(45)The modified plan including the REPowerEU chapter assesses compliance with the ‘do no significant harm’ principle following the methodology set out in the Commission’s technical guidance on the application of ‘do no significant harm’ under the Recovery and Resilience Facility Regulation (2021/C58/01). The assessment is done systematically for each modified reform and investment following the two-step approach. The assessment concludes that for all modified measures, there is either no risk of significant harm or, where a risk is identified, a more detailed assessment is performed demonstrating the absence of significant harm. Lithuania has reported on the detailed assessment for the new measures, including those in the REPowerEU chapter. None of the measures in the REPowerEU chapter required a derogation from the ‘do no significant harm’ principle. Where needed, the requirements of the ‘do no significant harm’ assessment are enshrined in the design of a measure and specified in a milestone or target of this measure. Based on the information provided, it can be concluded that no measure is expected to do significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852.

Contribution to the REPowerEU objectives

(46)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (da), of and Annex V, criterion 2.12, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the REPowerEU chapter is expected to effectively contribute to a large extent (Rating A) to energy security, the diversification of the Union’s energy supply, an increase in the uptake of renewables and in energy efficiency, an increase of energy storage capacities or the necessary reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.

(47)The objective set out in Article 21c (3), point (b) on boosting energy efficiency in buildings and critical energy infrastructure, decarbonising industry, increasing the production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and of renewable or fossil-free hydrogen, and increasing the share and accelerating the deployment of renewable energy is expected to be addressed by reform H.1.3.1. that aims at streamlining and speeding up permitting and other administrative processes, including by reducing the number of required permits, shortening the timeframe for obtaining them and regulating hybrid power plants, thus accelerating the deployment of renewables. Furthermore, reform H.1.3.2. aims to provide support to either legal entities, farmers, renewable energy communities or citizen energy communities for the acquisition and installation of onshore solar and wind power plants, prioritising self-consumption, farm or economic needs, thus also accelerating the deployment of renewables. Additionally, the REPowerEU chapter contains an investment (H.3.1.) providing loan support to business entities (including public entities engaged in similar activities as the private entities) to invest in projects supporting the creation of additional RES generation capacity (solar and wind), thus accelerating the deployment of renewables. The REPowerEU chapter further contains an investment (H.1.1), which aims to increase the pace of the building renovation process through the update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards, and support for the renovation of buildings, thus boosting energy efficiency in buildings.

(48)The objective set out in Article 21 c (3), point (c) on energy poverty is expected to be addressed by a measure providing support for the renovation of multi-apartment buildings, which improves the energy efficiency of buildings and reduces heating costs for residents. It contributes to an extent towards reducing energy poverty often experienced by socio-economically disadvantaged groups. 

(49)The objective set out in Article 21c (3), point (e) on addressing internal and cross-border energy transmission and distribution bottlenecks, supporting electricity storage and accelerating the integration of renewable energy sources, and supporting zero-emission transport and its infrastructure, including railways is expected to be addressed by reform H.1.3.1. expected to contribute to reaching 100% of the electricity generated from renewable energy sources in Lithuania by analysing various modelling scenarios and developing a transformation model of the Lithuanian electricity sector, thus contributing to addressing internal and cross-border energy transmission and distribution bottlenecks. Additionally, the REPowerEU chapter contains an investment (H.1.2.) expected to reduce the use of road transport of goods by encouraging an alternative and cleaner transport of goods and other types of cargo over water, thus supporting zero-emission transport and its infrastructure.

(50)The REPowerEU measures are aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of renewable energy sources. The measures also reinforce those included in the original RRP on energy efficiency and renovation of buildings and are expected to contribute to increased RES deployment and reduced energy demand.

(51)The reform in the REPowerEU chapter aiming to simplify the administrative requirements for the deployment of new renewable energy capacity is expected to reinforce Lithuania’s energy security through amendments to the Law on Electricity and the Law on Renewable Energy. The most relevant amendments are the definition and regulation of hybrid power plants, the streamlining of permitting procedures for RES deployment as well as the shorter timeframe to obtain them. Lithuania’s reform of the renewable energy project permitting system is expected to reduce administrative barriers and contribute to decreasing its dependence on fossil fuels. 

(52)Additionally, the measures in the REPowerEU chapter are coherent with the efforts of Lithuania’s original RRP to promote the decarbonisation of the economy by scaling up the deployment of renewable energy capacity, the building renovation process, and the decarbonisation of the transport sector.

(53)Electricity grid capacity and flexibility is a bottleneck for the integration of renewables and increasing the efficiency, reliability and security of the power supply. Therefore, the investments into the construction of onshore renewable energy source plants and individual storage facilities from Lithuania’s REPowerEU chapter are expected, to a large extent, to make the grid better suited for integrating renewables and supplying firm, flexible and fast-responding energy.

(54)For all the above considerations, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is expected to effectively contribute to a large extent to energy security, the diversification of the Union’s energy supply, an increase in the uptake of renewables and in energy efficiency, an increase of energy storage capacities or the necessary reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.

Measures having a cross-border or multi-country dimension or effect

(55)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (db), of and Annex V, criterion 2.13, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the measures included in the REPowerEU chapter are expected to a large extent (Rating A) to have a cross-border or multi-country dimension or effect.

(56)The REPowerEU chapter contributes to reducing dependency on fossil fuels and to reducing energy demand. In particular, the majority of the measures included in the REPowerEU chapter have a multi-country or cross-border dimension or effect. Investment support to increase the capacity for generating renewable energy sources and an accompanying study on Lithuania’s electricity system’s transition to 100% renewable energy will ultimately reduce reliance on electricity imports and dependency on fossil fuels. Measures are also expected to reduce Lithuania’s transport sector reliance on fossil fuels. Investment support should be provided to establish the necessary infrastructure for clean inland waterway transport of heavy goods, which is expected to contribute towards the reduction of traffic congestion and the reduction of demand of imported fossil fuels. Additionally, investment support should be provided for the renovation of multi-apartment buildings, thus improving the energy efficiency of Lithuania’s housing sector. This is expected reduce energy demand of such buildings and in turn dependency on fossil fuels.

(57)The estimated costs of these measures having a cross-border or multi-country dimension or effect included in the REPowerEU chapter represent 100% of the estimated total costs of the REPowerEU chapter and justify rating the measures included in the REPowerEU chapter as expecting to have, to a large extent, a cross-border or multi-country dimension or effect.

Contribution to the green transition including biodiversity

(58)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (e), of and Annex V, criterion 2.5, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter, contains measures that contribute to a large extent (Rating A) to the green transition, including biodiversity, or to addressing the challenges resulting therefrom. The measures supporting climate objectives account for an amount which represents 40% of the RRP’s total allocation, and 99 % of the total estimated costs of measures in the REPowerEU chapter calculated in accordance with the methodology set out in Annex VI to that Regulation. In accordance with Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is consistent with the information included in the National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030.

(59)The modified RRP contains reforms and investments that are expected to significantly contribute to the green transition, including biodiversity, addressing the country specific recommendation as well as the achievement of the Union climate target by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. For instance, environmental and climate adaptation measures in the plan will finance the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from peatlands, sustainable transport and resource efficiency. In addition to the measures in the original RRP, measures in Lithuania’s REPowerEU chapter focus on accelerating the deployment of renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency and the sustainability of transport and the overall transition towards energy independence. These measures are expected to have a lasting impact on the green transition by accelerating the phase out of fossil fuels towards a sustainable renewable energy system in Lithuania.

Contribution to the digital transition

(60)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (f), of and Annex V, criterion 2.6, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP contains measures that contribute to a large extent (Rating A) to the digital transition or to addressing the challenges resulting from it. The measures supporting digital objectives account for an amount which represents 23% of the modified RRP’s total allocation, including loans, calculated in accordance with the methodology set out in Annex VII to that Regulation.

(61)The positive assessment of the contribution to the digital transition provided in the Council Implementing Decision of 20 July 2021 remains valid. The modified RRP entails the scaling up of the measures aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity capabilities of the State. The measures include the adoption of a National Cybersecurity Development Programme, the establishment of a cybersecurity monitoring system and strengthening the capacity to investigate cybercrime. These measures are complemented by an investment in increasing the level of education in cybersecurity of staff working in the public sector. All other measures regarding the digital transition remain unaltered in the modified RRP.

Lasting impact

(62)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (g), of and Annex V, criterion 2.7, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter is expected to have a lasting impact on Lithuania to a large extent (Rating A).

(63)The initial assessment of the RRP, in accordance with Article 19(3), point (g), of and Annex V, criterion 2.7, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241 found that the RRP was expected to have a lasting impact on Lithuania to a large extent (Rating A). 

(64)New investments included in the modified RRP including a REPowerEU chapter are expected to have a long-lasting impact on Lithuania as they will address structural challenges identified by the country specific recommendations. The investments under the REPowerEU chapter focus on building additional renewable energy source capacities, improving the energy efficiency of buildings and supporting the purchase of net-zero transport. The measures are expected to have a lasting positive impact on Lithuania’s green transition, by improving long-term energy security and affordability. 

(65)New reforms included in the modified RRP including a REPowerEU chapter are expected to have a long-lasting impact on Lithuania, as they will address structural challenges identified by the country specific recommendations. The added reforms in the areas of RES permitting green finance are expected to have a lasting impact on Lithuania’s green transition, by facilitating and accelerating the roll-out of its generation capacity. The social service reform is also expected to contribute to increasing the quality and personalisation of the country’s social services.

Monitoring and implementation

(66)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (h), of and Annex V, criterion 2.8, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the arrangements proposed in the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter are adequate (Rating A) to ensure effective monitoring and implementation of the RRP, including the envisaged timetable, milestones and targets, and the related indicators.

(67)The initial RRP proposed adequate arrangements to ensure effective monitoring and implementation of the RRP, including the envisaged timetable, milestones and targets, and the related indicators. 

(68)The nature and extent of the modifications to Lithuania’s recovery and resilience plan do not have an impact on the previous assessment of the effective monitoring and implementation of the recovery and resilience plan. The overall organisational arrangements to assess the adequacy of the plan implementation ensure a correct monitoring of progress and reporting remains unchanged. The milestones and targets of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter enable an adequate monitoring of the plan’s implementation. Each of the new reforms and investments introduced under the REPowerEU chapter includes at least one target or milestone that contains the key elements of the measure and allows for the assessment of the achievement of its objectives. The milestones and targets are clear and realistic, and the proposed indicators chosen for the implementation of milestones and targets remain relevant, acceptable and robust.

Costing

(69)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (i), of and Annex V, criterion 2.9, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the justification provided in the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter on the amount of the estimated total costs of the RRP is to a medium extent (Rating B) reasonable and plausible, is in line with the principle of cost efficiency and is commensurate to the expected national economic and social impact.

(70)The original assessment of the RRP determined that Lithuania had provided estimated costs for each investment included in the RRP, with generally detailed and well-substantiated cost breakdowns. The justification provided by Lithuania on the amount of the estimated total costs of the RRP was, to a medium extent, reasonable and plausible, in line with the principle of cost-efficiency and commensurate to the expected national economic and social impact.

(71)Lithuania has provided individual estimated costs for all the new measures that entail a cost in the RRP including the REPowerEU chapter, as well as individual justifications for all the measures whose modifications entailed a change in the cost estimates or a related target. The cost information provided by Lithuania is mostly sufficiently detailed and substantiated. Lithuania provided estimates and assumptions on costs using the standard template table, which was intended to summarize the key information and evidence on costing, including the methodology underlying the cost calculations. Lithuania also submitted additional documents and materials intended to clarify costing estimates and provide costing data and benchmarks on comparable investments done in the past or in other countries for most of the new measures. These documents include descriptions and explanations of the main drivers and changes in the costs of the modified measures and their proportionality. The assessment of the cost estimates and supporting documents shows that the majority of the costs of the new measures are well justified, reasonable and plausible. Moreover, the changes in the cost estimates of the modified measures are sufficiently justified and proportional. Finally, the estimated total cost of the RRP is in line with the principle of cost-efficiency and commensurate to the expected national economic and social impact.

(72)Lithuania has provided sufficient information and evidence that the costs for all new and REPowerEU measures will not be funded at the same time by other Union funding sources. The commitment to put in place safeguards which are meant to prevent double funding remains and has not been altered by the plan’s modification.

Protection of the financial interests of the Union

(73)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (j), of and Annex V, criterion 2.10, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the arrangements proposed in the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter and the additional measures contained in this Decision are adequate (Rating A) to prevent, detect and correct corruption, fraud and conflicts of interests when using the funds provided under that Regulation, and the arrangements are expected to effectively avoid double funding under that Regulation and other Union programmes. This is without prejudice to the application of other instruments and tools to promote and enforce compliance with Union law, including for preventing, detecting and correcting corruption, fraud and conflicts of interest, and for protecting the Union budget in line with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council
[6](#footnote7)
. 

(74)The assessment of the original RRP, in accordance with Article 19(3), point (j), of and Annex V, criterion 2.10, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, considered the arrangements proposed therein to be adequate (Rating A) to prevent, detect and correct corruption, fraud and conflicts of interest.

(75)The modified RRP comprises an update of the audit and control framework. In addition to the responsibilities entrusted to the managing and administering authorities, the proposed modifications to Lithuania’s management and internal control system assign the role of coordinating body to the Central Project Management Agency (CPMA) alongside the Ministry of Finance. Furthermore, Lithuania’s modified RRP foresees the use of existing national information systems to store the data referred to in Article 22(2)(d)(iii) of the Regulation (EU) 2021/241, until INVESTIS becomes fully operational. INVESTIS is a single information system dedicated to the management of the recovery and resilience plan and other EU funds for 2021-2027 period. The nature and extent of these modifications do not have an impact on the original assessment of the effective monitoring and implementation of the recovery and resilience plan.

Coherence of the RRP

(76)In accordance with Article 19(3), point (k), of and Annex V, criterion 2.11, to Regulation (EU) 2021/241, the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter includes to a high extent (Rating A) measures for the implementation of reforms and public investment projects that represent coherent actions.

(77)The modified plan including the REPowerEU chapter modifies the seven existing components and adds the REPowerEU chapter as an additional component (Component 8). It continues to address long-standing structural challenges and increases the resilience of the Lithuanian economy. The proposed modifications do not alter the overall coherence of the plan, considering that the components are made up of consistent packages of reforms and investments which are mutually reinforcing and complementary. The plan is further enriched by measures supporting the green transition and the newly added REPowerEU chapter. Furthermore, additional investments into cybersecurity will reinforce the digital transition by ensuring the effectiveness of data management as well as enhancing Lithuania’s cybersecurity capabilities. 

Any other assessment criteria

(78)The Commission considers that the modifications put forward by Lithuania do not affect the positive assessment of the RRP set out in the Council Implementing Decision of 28 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the RRP for Lithuania regarding the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and coherence of the RRP against the assessment criteria laid down in Article 19(3), point (j).

Consultation process

(79)Lithuania held targeted consultations with relevant stakeholders in relation to the preparation of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter. Social and economic partners at local and regional level were involved. Ministries consulted their partners in their field and extracted activities that directly contribute to the achievement of the REPowerEU objectives. Consulted stakeholders highlighted the importance of reinforcing investments in renewable energy production and energy independence. Additionally, a monthly consultation was launched by the Ministry of Finance on 7 December 2022, open to the general public. The public was informed beforehand about the proposed changes in several press releases published on the Ministry of Finance’s website and in a press conference attended by the finance and energy ministers on the day of the launch. Furthermore, the public was invited to express their views on social media accounts of the Ministry of Finance. The Lithuanian government received only one proposal on the possible development of the education sector through the public consultations. To ensure ownership by the relevant actors, it is crucial to involve all local authorities and stakeholders concerned, including social partners, throughout the implementation of the investments and reforms included in the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter.

Positive assessment

(80)Following the positive assessment of the Commission concerning the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter, with the finding that the plan satisfactorily complies with the criteria for assessment set out in Regulation (EU) 2021/241, in accordance with Article 20(2) of and Annex V to that Regulation, the reforms and investment projects necessary for the implementation of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter, the relevant milestones, targets and indicators, and the amount made available from the Union for the implementation of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter in the form of non-repayable financial and loan support should be set out.

Financial contribution

(81)The estimated total costs of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter of Lithuania is EUR 3 849 237 823. As the amount of the estimated total costs of the modified RRP is higher than the updated maximum financial contribution available for Lithuania, the financial contribution calculated in accordance with Article 11 allocated for Lithuania's modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter should be equal to the total amount of the financial contribution available for Lithuania’s modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter. This amount is equal to EUR 2 099 135 822. 

(82)Pursuant to Article 21a (5) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, on 30 June 2023 Lithuania submitted a request for the allocation of the revenue referred to in Article 21a (1) of that Regulation, shared between Member States on the basis of the indicators set out in the methodology in Annex IVa to Regulation (EU) 2021/241. The estimated total costs of the measures referred to in Article 21c(3), points (b) to (f) included in the REPowerEU chapter is EUR 198 429 642. As this amount is higher than the allocation share available for Lithuania, the additional non-repayable financial support available for Lithuania should be equal to the allocation share. This amount is equal to EUR 193 729 642.

(83)Additionally, in accordance with Article 4a of Regulation (EU) 2021/1755
[7](#footnote8)
, on 1 March 2023 Lithuania submitted a reasoned request to transfer part of its remaining provisional allocation from the resources of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to the Facility, amounting to EUR 4 700 000. That amount should be made available to support the reforms and investments in the REPowerEU chapter as additional non-repayable financial support.

(84)The total financial contribution available to Lithuania should be EUR 2 297 565 464.

Loan

(85)Furthermore, in order to support additional reforms and investments, Lithuania has requested a total loan support of EUR 1 551 672 358, in particular, EUR 549 130 737 to support the reforms and investments in the REPowerEU chapter and EUR 1 002 541 621 to support the other reforms and investments in the RRP. The maximum volume of the loan requested by Lithuania is less than 6,8% of its 2019 gross national income in current prices. The amount of the estimated total costs of the RRP is higher than the combined financial contribution available for Lithuania, including the REPowerEU chapter and the updated maximum financial contribution for non-repayable financial support, the revenue from the emission trading system under Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council
[8](#footnote9)
 and from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.

REPowerEU Pre-financing

(86)Lithuania has requested the following funding for the implementation of its REPowerEU chapter: transfer of EUR 4 700 000 from the provisional allocation from the resources of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, and EUR 193 729 642 from the revenue from the Emissions Trading System under Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, EUR 549 130 737 in the form of loan.

(87)For those amounts, pursuant to Article 21d of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, on 30 June 2023 Lithuania has requested pre-financing of 20% of the funding requested. Subject to available resources, that pre-financing should be made available to Lithuania subject to the entry into force of, and in accordance with, agreements to be concluded between the Commission and Lithuania pursuant to Article 23(1) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 (the ‘financing agreement’) and pursuant to Article 15(2) of that Regulation (the ‘loan agreement’).

(88)Council Implementing Decision ST 10477/21 INIT; ST 10477/21 ADD 1 of 28 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the RRP for Lithuania should therefore be amended accordingly. For the sake of clarity, the Annex to that Implementing Decision should be replaced entirely,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Implementing Decision (EU) ST 10477/21 ADD 1 is amended as follows:

(1) Article 1 is replaced by the following:

“Article 1

Approval of the assessment of the RRP

The assessment of the modified RRP of Lithuania on the basis of the criteria provided for in Article 19(3) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 is approved. The reforms and investment projects under the RRP, the arrangements and timetable for the monitoring and implementation of the RRP, including the relevant milestones and targets and the additional milestones and targets related to the payment of the loan, the relevant indicators relating to the fulfilment of the envisaged milestones and targets, and the arrangements for providing full access by the Commission to the underlying relevant data are set out in the Annex to this Decision.”;

(2) In Article 2, paragraphs 1 and 2 are replaced by the following:

“1. The Union shall make available to Lithuania a financial contribution in the form of non-repayable support amounting to EUR 2 297 565 464
[9](#footnote10)
 That contribution includes:

(a)an amount of EUR 2 091 774 090 that shall be available to be legally committed by 31 December 2022;

(b)an amount of EUR 7 361 732 that shall be available to be legally committed from 1 January 2023 until 31 December 2023;

(c)an amount of EUR 193 729 642
[10](#footnote11)
, in accordance with Article 21a(6) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, exclusively for measures referred to in Article 21c of that Regulation, with the exception of measures referred to in Article 21c (3), point (a);

(d)an amount of EUR 4 700 000, transferred from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve to the Facility.

2. The Union financial contribution shall be made available by the Commission to Lithuania in instalments in accordance with the Annex to this Decision. An amount of EUR 289 145 365 shall be made available as pre-financing in accordance with Article 13 of Regulation (EU) 2021/241.

An amount of EUR 39 685 928 shall be made available as pre-financing in accordance with Article 21d of Regulation (EU) 2021/241. That pre-financing may be disbursed by the Commission in up to two payments.

The pre-financing and instalments may be disbursed by the Commission in one or several tranches. The size of the tranches shall be subject to the availability of funding.”;

(3) the following Article 2a is inserted:

“Article 2a
  
Loan support

1.The Union shall make available to Lithuania a loan amounting to a maximum of EUR 1 551 672 358.

2.The loan support referred to in paragraph 1 shall be made available by the Commission to Lithuania in instalments in accordance with the Annex to this Decision.

An amount of EUR 109 826 147 shall be made available as pre-financing in accordance with Article 21d of Regulation (EU) 2021/241. That pre-financing may be disbursed by the Commission in up to two payments.

The pre-financing and instalments may be disbursed by the Commission in one or several tranches. The size of the tranches shall be subject to the availability of funding.

3.The pre-financing referred to in paragraph 2 shall be released subject to the entry into force and in accordance with the loan agreement. Pre-financing shall be cleared by being proportionally deducted against the payment of the instalments.

4.The release of instalments in accordance with the Loan Agreement shall be conditional on available funding and a decision by the Commission, taken in accordance with Article 24 of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, that Lithuania has satisfactorily fulfilled the additional milestones and targets covered by the loan and identified in relation to the implementation of the modified RRP including the REPowerEU chapter. In order to be eligible for payment, Lithuania shall complete the additional milestones and targets no later than 31 August 2026”.

(4) The Annex is replaced by the text in the Annex to this Decision: 

Article 2
  
Addressee

This Decision is addressed to the Republic of Lithuania.

Done at Brussels,

For the Council

   The President

:   [(1)](#footnoteref2)
       OJ L 57, 18.2.2021, p. 17.
:   [(2)](#footnoteref3)
       ST 10477/21 INIT; ST 10477/21 ADD 1
:   [(3)](#footnoteref4)
       This amount corresponds to the financial allocation after deduction of Lithuania’s proportional share of the expenses of Article 6(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, calculated in accordance with the methodology of Article 11 of that Regulation.
:   [(4)](#footnoteref5)
       This amount corresponds to the financial allocation after deduction of Lithuania’s proportional share of the expenses of Article 6(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, calculated in accordance with the methodology of Article 11 of that Regulation.
:   [(5)](#footnoteref6)
       Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 June 2020 on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment, and amending Regulation (EU) 2019/2088 (OJ L 198, 22.6.2020, p. 13).
:   [(6)](#footnoteref7)
       Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget (OJ L 433 I, 22.12.2020, p. 1).
:   [(7)](#footnoteref8)
       Regulation (EU) 2021/1755 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 October 2021 establishing the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (OJ L 357 8.10.2021, p. 1).
:   [(8)](#footnoteref9)
       Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Community and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC (OJ L 275, 25.10.2003, p. 32–46).
:   [(9)](#footnoteref10)
       This amount corresponds to the financial allocation after deduction of Lithuania’s proportional share of the expenses of Article 6(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, calculated in accordance with the methodology of Article 11 of that Regulation.
:   [(10)](#footnoteref11)
       This amount corresponds to the financial allocation after deduction of Lithuania’s proportional share of the expenses of Article 6(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, calculated in accordance with the methodology of Annex IVa of that Regulation.

[Top](#document1)

![european flag](./../../../images/eclogo.jpg)EUROPEAN COMMISSION

Brussels, 23.10.2023

COM(2023) 685 final

ANNEX

to the

Proposal for a COUNCIL IMPLEMENTING DECISION

amending Implementing Decision (EU) (ST 10477/21 INIT; ST 10477/21 ADD 1) of 20 July 2021 on the approval of the assessment of the recovery and resilience plan for Lithuania

{SWD(2023) 347 final}

ANNEX

SECTION 1: REFORMS AND INVESTMENTS UNDER THE RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE PLAN

1.Description of Reforms and Investments

A. COMPONENT 1: A resilient and future-proof health system

The component of the Lithuanian recovery and resilience plan contributes to addressing challenges related to the resilience, quality, accessibility and efficiency of the healthcare system. These challenges have been exacerbated in particular by the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The component includes a set of reforms and investments related to: (1) improving the quality and accessibility of health services and promoting innovation, (2) improving long-term care services and (3) strengthening the resilience of the healthcare system to deal with emergencies. In terms of reforms, they focus on further shift to outpatient care, reorganisation of the hospital network, digitalisation of healthcare, improving working conditions of health professionals, shortages and skills of healthcare staff, introduction of measures to improve the quality of healthcare, scaling up prevention measures and improving access to long-term care, reforming the ways of financing healthcare to reduce dependence on employment-related contributions. Regarding the investments, the plan includes targeted measures to create a centre for advanced therapies, establish a health professionals’ competence platform, digitalise the health system, develop an integrated healthcare quality assessment model, set up long-term care day-care centres and mobile teams. To increase an efficient delivery of health services in health emergencies and strengthen the resilience of the health system, investments are envisaged to modernise the infrastructure of healthcare facilities to adapt work in emergency and crisis situations.

The measures included in the component are expected to address some challenges highlighted by the country-specific recommendation to strengthen the resilience of the health system and to improve the accessibility and quality of health services (country-specific recommendation 2020) as well as increase the quality, affordability and efficiency of the healthcare system (country-specific recommendation 2019).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

A.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

A.1.1. Reform 1: “Improving the quality and accessibility of health services and promoting innovation”

The objective of the reform is to increase the quality and accessibility of health care, with a focus on strengthening primary care, specialised outpatient care, digitalisation of the health sector and innovation. In particular, the envisaged measures focus on strengthening the role of primary health care, the development of innovative and science-based public health services, setting up a network of centres of excellence and a network of personal health facilities based on a model of regional cooperation reorienting the healthcare system from inpatient to outpatient care, improving health resource planning and skills of specialists development processes, digitalisation of the health system, monitoring of the performance of the health system and improving the financing model of the health system.

This reform is accompanied by 11 sub-measures: (1) Legislative framework regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services (sub-measure 1); (2) Development of digital health system facilitating the secondary use of health data (sub-measure 2); (3) Action Plan on Family Medicine Development 2016-2025 (sub-measure 3); (4) Establishment of a basic public health service delivery model (sub-measure 4); (5) Improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals. (sub-measure 5); (6) Establishment of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of regional cooperation (sub-measure 6); (7) Creation of Centre for Advanced Therapies (sub-measure 7); (8) Creation of a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “1+ Million Genomes” (sub-measure 8); (9) Creation of Health Professionals Competence Platform (sub-measure 9); (10) Development of healthcare quality assessment model (sub-measure 10); (11) Digitalisation of the healthcare sector (sub-measure 11).

A.1.1.1. Sub-measure 1: Legislative framework regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services 

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt amendments to the Law on Health Care Institutions and the Law on the Health System of the Republic of Lithuania and the related legislation establishing a centralized model for the organization of emergency care by integrating ambulance dispatch centres into a single system of the Emergency Response Centre.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

A.1.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Development of digital health system facilitating the secondary use of health data

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt legislation on secondary use of health data. In this context, a mapping of health care system information resources shall be prepared and information systems maturity analysis shall be performed, assessing its integrity with other information systems. On this basis decisions shall be taken to optimize resources contributing to the coordinated, high-quality and interoperable IT health care system.

 

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2022.

A.1.1.3. Sub-measure 3: Action Plan on Family Medicine Development 2016-2025 

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt an updated action plan on Family Medicine Development for 2016-2025. The action plan to be adopted by the Ministry of Health shall enable general practitioners to focus more effectively on patients and patients to access a wider range of healthcare. Social partners shall be consulted.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

A.1.1.4. Sub-measure 4: Establishment of a basic public health service delivery model

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt legislation on the basic model of public health service delivery establishing equal conditions to receive necessary and high-quality services for target groups in society, especially for the vulnerable and socially excluded. An analysis of the population’s health and health care inequalities shall be performed and target specific groups identified. The demand and supply of public health services for each group shall be assessed. The basic list of public health services, quality criteria, responsibilities, monitoring mechanism shall be established and approved by the order of the Minister of Health.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

A.1.1.5. Sub-measure 5: Improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals 

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt a legislation on improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals. Decisions on the financial capacity of the State to fulfil the provisions of the draft agreement shall be assessed and adopted. Furthermore, an action plan for improving the psycho-emotional state of doctors shall be prepared and approved by an order of the Minister of Health. A working group shall be set up to develop a mechanism for in-service training of health care professionals.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2023.

A.1.1.6. Sub-measure 6: Establishment of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of regional cooperation 

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt a legislation on the establishment and regulation of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of centres of excellence and regional cooperation. The principles and criteria for the formation of a network of personal health care institutions shall be developed and a mechanism for cooperation between personal health care institutions and centres of excellence shall be established. A decision of the Government on the necessary regulatory, investment and communication actions to form a sustainable network of health care institutions shall be adopted.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2023.

A.1.1.7. Sub-measure 7: Creation of Centre for Advanced Therapies 

The objective of this sub-measure is to create a Centre for Advanced Therapies to ensure the availability of innovative advanced therapies and improve the quality of health services. The project foresees an extension of the University Hospital in Vilnius for the development and production of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products. Investments include an extension of infrastructure, purchase of medical equipment, and professional development. The Centre for Advanced Therapies shall be fully integrated with the activities of the University Hospital in Vilnius.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

A.1.1.8. Sub-measure 8: Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “1+ Million Genomes”

The objective of this sub-measure is to complete sequencing tests and to enable Lithuania to participate in the EU cross-border health project "1+ Million Genomes". In particular, the investments in the project “Surveys for the sequencing of the human genome in a representative sample of the total population of Lithuania” shall create a representative collection of reference genome data of Lithuanian citizens. It aims to strengthen Lithuania’s genetic research in order to facilitate secure matching and analysing of these data within the framework of the project.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

A.1.1.9. Sub-measure 9: Establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform 

The objective of this sub-measure is to establish a health professionals competence platform to be used for identifying, monitoring and managing health professionals’ skills development. It shall keep a record of health professionals' licences in line with the relevant regulatory framework and linked to the Licensing Register of Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Professional Practices.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

A.1.1.10. Sub-measure 10: Development of healthcare quality assessment model 

The objective of this sub-measure is to develop an integrated healthcare quality assessment model and a patient feedback tool. The model is to assess the efficiency and quality of the health services provided by public health offices, primary care centres and hospitals and to create a framework to compare the performance of health institutions.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2025.

A.1.1.11. Sub-measure 11: Digitalisation of the healthcare sector 

The objective of this sub-measure is to integrate various health information resources into a system based on uniform principles and modernise the electronic health elements. This includes the development of solutions to increase the share of the country’s population receiving the relevant healthcare services electronically and the share of outpatient and inpatient personal healthcare institutions using e-health products. This also includes the adoption of an Action Plan on digital health and the implementation of projects related to: emergency medical units occupancy; the digitalisation of emergency functions; the development of telemedicine; communicable disease surveillance; the development of a national digital health ecosystem; e-health records of medical images; monitoring and updating of data for pharmaceutical markets; monitoring of the quality of personal health services; and preventive programmes. These projects are expected to contribute to digital solutions for analytical data processing, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence and to creating the conditions for future participation in multi-country projects related to cross-border exchange of health data, e-prescription and patient summary, European Reference Networks (ERNs), projects aiming at developing an efficient, interoperable, secure cross-border platform for electronic health record exchange for X-eHealth for the transition to the Common Data Sharing System and creating a common European health data space. The investment aims at improving accessibility, quality and resource efficiency of health services and to promote a digitally integrated healthcare system.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

A.1.2. Reform 2 “Provision of long-term care services”

The objective of the reform is to improve the accessibility of integrated social and healthcare services by developing and gradually implementing a sustainable long-term care model. An action plan for training, re-skilling and upskilling of long-term care professionals shall be developed and a plan for ensuring the necessary infrastructure for the provision of long-term care services at the level of municipality and region shall ensure an optimal use of existing infrastructure for health and social protection and resources of municipal and non-governmental organisations. The analysis of resources for institutional, community-based and home-based long-term care shall be made at regional level and a new model for the provision of long-term care shall become operational.

This reform is accompanied by 2 sub-measures: (1) Adoption of the long-term care model (sub-measure 1); (2) Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services (sub-measure 2).

A.1.2.1. Sub-measure 1: Adoption of the long-term care model 

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt a legislation governing the gradual implementation of the long-term care model. The model for the provision and financing of social and personal healthcare shall simplify the pathway for patients for obtaining long-term care, thus preparing for the introduction of a long-term care model based on the one-stop shop principle. An in-depth analysis shall be carried out to determine the model for the provision of long-term care services.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2024.

A.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services

The objective of this sub-measure is to set up 10 specialised long-term care day centres where patients shall have access to integrated health and social services and community-based activities. Equipment and vehicles needed for the development of outpatient long-term care services and the necessary human resources for 90 mobile teams shall be provided. At least 1000 professionals shall be trained as home carers, comprising mobile team staff and staff in the established day centres. While the specialised day centres shall be located in cities, the mobile teams shall be formed throughout the country, with special attention being paid to rural municipalities.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

A.1.3. Reform 3 “Systemic improvement of the health system resilience to deal with emergencies”

The objective of the reform is to ensure a balanced, safe and efficient delivery of health services in emergency situations by improving cooperation between health care institutions and adapting infrastructure to emergency situations.

This reform is accompanied by 3 sub-measures: (1) Action plan on improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations. (sub-measure 1); (2) Modernisation of Centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases (sub-measure 2); (3) Modernisation of emergency departments and resuscitation units in regional hospitals (sub-measure 3).

A.1.3.1. Sub-measure 1: Action plan improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations

The objective of this sub-measure is to adopt an action plan on improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations. It shall include requirements for the healthcare institutions to ensure their preparedness and the effectiveness of the system's response to emergencies. The preconditions shall be created for more efficient cooperation of available human resources. An assessment of the emergency preparedness of healthcare institutions shall be carried out.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

A.1.3.2. Sub-measure 2: Modernisation of Centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases 

The objective of this sub-measure is to modernise and expand the centres of excellence of the cluster of infectious diseases in five hospitals located in major cities, including Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda, Siauliai and Panevezys adapting to emergency and crisis situations. Investments shall include renovation, adaptation of buildings, reconstruction and refurbishment of premises as well as for the procurement of the medical and laboratory equipment to ensure affordable, high-quality and safe diagnostic and treatment services for infectious diseases. Overall, investments in hospital infrastructure shall help reorganising the ambulance services to ensure that the necessary and timely medical assistance is provided to the population. It shall also ensure the capacity to treat infectious diseases without increasing the total number of curative beds at national level.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

A.1.3.3. Sub-measure 3: Modernisation of emergency departments and resuscitation units in regional hospitals

The objective of this sub-measure is to modernise emergency, resuscitation and intensive care medical units in seven hospitals/trauma centres in Vilnius, Kaunas, Alytus, Marijampole, Utena, Telsiai and Taurage hospitals. The investments shall include reconstruction and modernisation of emergency medical units.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

A.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 1 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.1. Legislative framework regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services | Milestone | Entry into force of the amended Law on Health Care Institutions and the Law on the Health System of the Republic of Lithuania and the related legislation | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q4 | 2022 | The organisation, management and provision of ambulance services shall be regulated by the Law on Health Care Institutions and the Law on the Health System of the Republic of Lithuania. The requirements for the provision of ambulance services and payment procedures regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services shall be included in orders of the Minister of Health. |
| 2 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.2. Development of digital health system facilitating the secondary use of health data | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation governing the secondary use of health data | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q3 | 2022 | Legislation on secondary use of health data and the implementing provisions on procedures for issuing permits for secondary use of data, preparation of health data for the secondary use, reimbursement of costs of providing health data by health data controllers to an institution authorized by the Government shall (i) create conditions for efficient and safe secondary use of health data for public interest purposes (research, experimental development and innovation, education and knowledge management in health, health policy-making, statistics), (ii) ensure sustainable development of digital health and (iii) regulate the organizational and technical measures necessary for a harmonized, coordinated and high-quality secondary use of data, while ensuring the protection of personal data. |
| 3 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.3. Action Plan on Family Medicine Development 2016-2025 | Milestone | Adoption of the updated Action Plan on Family Medicine Development for 2016-2025 | Adoption of the Action Plan on Family Medicine Development by the Ministry of Health | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q4 | 2022 | An Action plan on Family Medicine Development for 2016-2025 shall be developed and approved by the Ministry of Health. The Action Plan shall define functions of a family doctor not directly interlinked with the provision of health care services; and redistribute responsibilities between general practitioners and other members of the medical team (nurses, midwives, nursing assistants, lifestyle professionals, social workers or physiotherapists). |
| 4 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.4. Establishment of a basic public health service delivery model | Milestone | Entry into force of a basic model of public health service delivery establishing equal conditions to receive necessary and high-quality services for target groups in society, especially vulnerable and socially excluded | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q1 | 2023 | The basic public health service delivery model shall establish a basic list of public health services including health promotion and disease prevention, quality criteria, service monitoring mechanism as well as of health services for target groups, especially the vulnerable and socially excluded. The model aims for the necessary and high-quality services to be provided in all municipalities in an equal manner. |
| 5 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.5. Improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q2 | 2023 | The legislation to improve working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals shall include provisions on wage regulation, workload, measures to improve the psycho-emotional state of doctors and a mechanism for the in-service training of health professionals. |
| 6 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.6. Establishment of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of regional cooperation | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on the establishment and regulation of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of centres of excellence and regional cooperation | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q3 | 2023 | Legislation governing the network of personal health care institutions based on the model of centres of excellence and regional cooperation shall establish the principles and criteria for the formation of a network of personal health care institutions and a mechanism for cooperation between personal health care institutions and centres of excellence. |
| 7 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.7. Creation of Centre for Advanced Therapies | Milestone | Establishment of an Advanced Therapy Centre | The establishment of an Advanced Therapy Centre | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q4 | 2025 | Establishment of the advanced therapy centre shall enable the preparation of advanced therapy medicinal products and ensure the provision of innovative cell therapy services to the population throughout the country.    The advanced therapy centre infrastructure design and construction works shall be completed, medical / laboratory equipment, IT equipment and furniture purchased and installed, methodological guidelines implemented, professional development training completed and the necessary operating licenses obtained. |
| 8 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.8. Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “Genome Europe” | Target | Number of sequencing tests performed for the whole human genome | N/a | Number | 0 | 750 | Q2 | 2025 | Number of completed sequencing tests performed to participate in the implementation of the EU cross-border project "1+ Million Genomes" shall be at least 750. The Lithuanian institutions participating in the project shall be equipped with laboratory and computer equipment necessary for the development of national genomic reference data and implementation of national infrastructure for genomic medicine initiated. The target is linked to the adoption of the legal framework for genome research and the exchange of this information with EU countries. |
| 9 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation  A.1.1.8. Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “Genome Europe” | Target | Number of sequencing tests performed for the whole human genome | N/a | Number | 750 | 1570 | Q1 | 2026 | Number of completed sequencing tests performed to participate in the implementation of the EU cross-border project "1+ Million Genomes" shall be at least 1570. The Lithuanian institutions participating in the project shall be equipped with laboratory and computer equipment necessary for the development of national genomic reference data and implementation of national infrastructure for genomic medicine initiated. The target is linked to the adoption of the legal framework for genome research and the exchange of this information with EU countries. |
| 10 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.9. Establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform | Milestone | Establishment of a Health Professionals Competence Platform | The establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q4 | 2024 | Health Professionals Competence Platform shall be established and include modalities to identify, monitor, plan and manage health professionals such as doctors, nurses, public health, pharmaceutical specialists’ skills development (reskilling and upskilling). The Platform shall store records of health professionals' licences and be linked to the Licensing Register of Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Professional Practices.    The Platform shall enable monitoring and planning professional development of specialists, monitoring of upskilling and reskilling of specialists of national health providers and public health care. |
| 11 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.10. Development of healthcare quality assessment model | Target | Share of health care institutions included in the Lithuanian national health system display panel based on a set of performance indicators |  | % (Percentage) | 0 | 100 | Q2 | 2025 | Share of health care institutions included in the health system display panel based on a set of performance indicators shall be monitored by the Ministry of Health and the State Health Care Accreditation Agency under the Ministry of Health. An IT tool for monitoring the quality of health services provided at national, municipal and health care provider level shall be put in place. The IT monitoring tool shall allow assessing the performance of health care institutions, compare the values of indicators with the target values at the national, municipal and health care institutions level, compare the activities of all health care institutions according to the selected indicators. The IT tool shall enable planning decisions to be made on the basis of the monitored information aimed at improving the performance of the health care institutions. |
| 12 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Target | Share of the country’s population provided with healthcare-related electronic services | N/a | % (Percentage) | 30 | 60 | Q4 | 2025 | Share of Lithuanian population receiving the relevant healthcare services electronically. The services shall include the outpatient visits, electronic prescriptions, issuing of a child's birth certificate, issuing of a medical death certificate, medical examination of drivers, referrals for consultation, research, treatment, diagnostic test and vaccination records.    The achievement of the target is directly linked to the creation of an information system integrated with the Electronic Health Services and Cooperation Infrastructure Information System (ESPBI IS) established by the State Enterprise Centre of Registers. The existing LNKC information system shall be integrated with the ESPBI IS and to enable the LNKC IS to exchange web service documents with national contact points of other EU countries. |
| 13 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Target | Share of outpatient and inpatient personal health care institutions using e-health products | N/a | % (Percentage) | 50 | 70 | Q4 | 2025 | Share of inpatient and outpatient personal health care institutions using eHealth products to increase from 50% to 70%. The institutions shall adapt their internal processes and information systems in line with the Order No. V-657 “On the approval of the description of the procedure for the use of the electronic health services and cooperation infrastructure information system" of the Minister of Health and manage data in the Electronic Health Services and Collaborative Infrastructure Information System (ESBPI IS). |
| 13a | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation  A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Milestone | Action plan for the Development of the Digital Health System | Action Plan approved and projects implemented | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q2 | 2026 | The Action Plan for the Development of the Digital Health System shall be approved by Ministerial Order and projects related to: emergency medical units occupancy; the digitalisation of emergency functions; the development of telemedicine; communicable disease surveillance; the development of a national digital health ecosystem; e-health records of medical images; monitoring and updating of data for pharmaceutical markets; monitoring of the quality of personal health services; and preventive programmes shall be implemented. |
| 14 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.9. Establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform | Target | Share of healthcare professionals whose license is recorded and digitally monitored |  | % (Percentage) | 0 | 50 | Q1 | 2026 | Share of country’s healthcare professionals, whose licence shall be recorded and digitally monitored in an IT system.    The State Health Care Accreditation Agency shall monitor compliance with the license conditions of healthcare specialists. |
| 15 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.1. Adoption of the long-term care model | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation governing the implementation of the long-term care model | Legislation entered into force | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q1 | 2024 | Legislation governing the gradual implementation of the long-term care model shall include the concept of long-term care services, service provision requirements, the administration of long-term care services, clear assignment of service administration functions to specific institutions, set out the basic requirements for relevant entities to provide long-term care services and establish principles and mechanisms for the financing of long-term care services. |
| 16 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.2. Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services | Target | Share of long-term care patients receiving out-patient long-term care services (%) | N/a | % (Percentage) | 5 | 30 | Q2 | 2025 | Share of Lithuanian long-term care patients receiving relevant services at home and / or in day centres to increase to 30%.    The achievement of the target is directly linked to forming ninety teams of specialists providing outpatient services in the residents' homes, establishment of ten specialized day care centres in cities for the provision of more integrated long-term care services and training for at least 1000 long-term care professionals.    The indicator shall be monitored by the Ministry of Health. |
| 17 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.2. Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services | Target | Share of long-term care patients receiving out-patient long-term care services (%) | N/a | % (Percentage) | 30 | 60 | Q1 | 2026 | Share of Lithuanian long-term care patients receiving relevant services at home and / or in day centres to increase to 60%.    The achievement of the target is directly linked to forming ninety teams of specialists providing outpatient services in the residents' homes, establishment of ten specialized day care centres in cities for the provision of more integrated long-term care services and training for at least 1000 long-term care professionals.    The indicator shall be monitored by the Ministry of Health. |
| 18 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.1. Action plan improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations | Milestone | Entry into force of an Action plan on improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations | Adoption of the Action Plan on cooperation between health care institutions and modernisation of infrastructure for emergency situations by the Ministry of Health | N/a | N/a | N/a | Q1 | 2023 | The action plan to improve cooperation between health care institutions and to adapt infrastructure to emergency situations shall include requirements on preparedness to emergencies for healthcare institutions and ensure efficient deployment of human resources. |
| 19 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.2. Modernisation of Centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases | Target | Number of modernised health care facilities which include centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases |  | Number | 0 | 5 | Q4 | 2025 | The investments shall be used to modernize the infrastructure of 5 infectious disease cluster centres, which is necessary to ensure the efficiency, quality and safety of the diagnosis and treatment of dangerous infections.  It shall be ensured that the total number of curative beds at national level does not increase.  The target shall be deemed achieved after the following actions: (i) updated requirements for infectious diseases and admission departments have been established; (ii) investment projects for the modernised health care facilities including centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases implemented. |
| 20 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.3. Modernisation of emergency departments and resuscitation units in regional hospitals | Target | Number of modernised health care facilities in hospital emergency, resuscitation and intensive care units |  | Number | 0 | 7 | Q4 | 2025 | The investment shall be used to modernize the emergency departments and resuscitation (intensive care) units of seven regional level hospitals in order to ensure the readiness of institutions to provide quality and safe services in emergency situations.  The target shall be deemed achieved after the following actions: (i) updated requirements for the operation of emergency departments; (ii) updated requirements for resuscitation and intensive care units; (iii) investment projects for the modernised health care facilities in hospital emergency, resuscitation and intensive care units implemented. |

B. COMPONENT 2: Green transformation of Lithuania

The component of the Lithuanian recovery and resilience plan contributes to addressing challenges linked to the green transition, and in particular the need to lower GHG emissions, including from the transport sector, increase energy efficiency in buildings and transport, enhance resource efficiency and contribute to GHG absorption through nature-based solutions.

The component envisages the preparatory works for development of offshore wind power plant and related infrastructure, support for the construction of individual storage facilities and the establishment of renewable energy communities, and installation of other electricity storage infrastructure, dedicated to public use during a first period of time. As regards mobility, key measures entail support for the replacement of polluting road transport vehicles used by the public sector and business with clean vehicles, to improve the quality and attractiveness of public transport services by upgrading public transport vehicles with zero or low emission vehicles, establishment of charging/refilling infrastructure for all types of clean vehicles using alternative fuels, and to develop alternative fuels sectors (biomethane, second generation liquid biofuels, hydrogen). As regards energy efficiency, this is planned to be achieved by the building renovation packages and standards, municipal development plans, sustainable urban development methodologies and district renovation projects, promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings and funding for renovation. To restore the capacity of degraded wetlands to absorb and store GHG, a reform on restoring these wetlands is envisaged as result of which 6000 ha of such lands shall be restored upon the plan’s implementation. Finally, resource efficiency shall be advanced with the adoption of the Circular Economy Action Plan, which shall lay out the direction to more resource efficient Lithuania by 2035.

The measures included in the component support addressing the country-specific recommendation to focus on investment-related economic policy on energy and resource efficiency, sustainable transport and energy interconnections (CSR3 2019).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01). It is also expected that if the support is provided to any installation covered by the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the ETS activities need to achieve greenhouse gas emissions lower than the relevant ETS benchmarks
[1](#footnote2)
.

B.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

B.1.1. Reform 1 “More sustainable electricity produced in the country”

The objective of the reform is to promote the production, transmission and consumption of electricity from renewable sources, improving institutional and legal mechanisms, and providing investment incentives for businesses and citizens. In particular, this reform aims to: (i) increase the production of electricity from RES to at least 7 TWh by 2030, which shall ensure that RES generate 50% of total national electricity consumption; (ii) increase local electricity production capacities; (iii) facilitate the development of capacities required for the production of electricity from RES by supporting the most economically efficient technologies; (iv) gradually integrate the electricity producers using RES into the market; (v) ensure a minimum financial burden on electricity consumers; (vi) ensure non-discrimination against the producers of imported electricity and allowing other Member States to benefit from the support mechanism introduced by the draft Law on Energy from Renewable Sources; (vii) ensure the dismantling of power plants which stopped their operation; (viii) ensure that electricity is not produced at negative prices; (ix) create appropriate conditions for prosumers and RES communities.

This reform is accompanied by 3 sub-measures: (1) preparatory work for the development of offshore wind parks and related infrastructure (sub-measure 1); (2) support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities (sub-measure 2); (3) installation of other electricity storage infrastructure (sub-measure 3).

B.1.1.1 Sub-measure 1: Preparatory work for the development of offshore wind power plants and related infrastructure

The objective of this sub-measure is to carry out preparatory works for the development of offshore wind power plants. The sub-measure shall include the following: (i) measurements of wind speeds and other parameters; (ii) studies on the seabed of the area dedicated to the development of offshore wind power plant and the connection to the onshore grids; (iii) consultancy services for offshore wind parks and their connection to the onshore grids; (iv) studies on the implementation of the infrastructure and the identification of the offshore wind power plants’ connection to onshore grid route and place of substations; (v) preparation, adoption and implementation of the spatial planning documents for offshore wind connection to onshore grid; and (vi) preparation of technical specifications for connection to the onshore grid.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2025.

B.1.1.2 Sub-measure 2: Support for the construction of individual storage facilities

The objective of this sub-measure is to provide support for RES storage installations. The sub-measure shall include support provided to legal entities, farmers and renewable energy communities for the acquisition and installation of RES storage, prioritising self-consumption, farm or economic needs. As a result of the investment, additional individual electricity storage facilities of at least 15.2 MWh shall be created.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.1.3 Sub-measure 3: Installation of other electricity storage infrastructure

The objective of this sub-measure is to ensure the security, stability and readiness of the Lithuanian electricity system for the operation of isolated work prior to its interconnection with the electricity grids of continental Europe. The sub-measure shall consist of support to install four energy storage installations, each of 50 MW that shall provide synthetic inertia in response to frequency change, congestion management of the grids, which is necessary to integrate 100% of electricity generated from RES.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

B.1.2. Reform 2 “Moving without polluting the environment”

The objective of this reform is to significantly reduce GHG emissions by phasing out the most polluting road transport vehicles (private, public, commercial, public transport and freight fleet) in cities and regions and by increasing the share of renewable energy sources in the transport sector.

The implementation of the reform was started when the Seimas adopted the Law on Alternative Fuels. It shall be further continued with the adoption and entry into force of a legislative framework, establishing a procedure for determining energy efficiency and environmental protection requirements for the purchase of road transport vehicles and for cases in which they are mandatory. This framework shall enter into force by 31 December 2021.

The Sustainable Mobility Fund shall be established, which shall provide support, in certain defined cases, for the purchase and usage of clean vehicles as well as installation, modernisation and development of alternative fuels infrastructure for these vehicles. The fund shall also be used to support restrictions for the usage of internal combustion engine powered vehicles, with the exception of zero and low-emission vehicles. The support shall be provided in a targeted and continuous manner, until at least 2030. The fund shall become operational by 31 March 2022.

In addition to the replacement of polluting vehicles, the reform shall also replace the road user charge paid by the owners of vehicles
[2](#footnote3)
 for the period of use with an e-toll charge. The distance-based toll system is expected to encourage vehicle owners/operators to use more environmentally friendly vehicles, as well as to rationalise the planning and optimisation of their travel routes, as the length of the journey shall determine the amount of the toll. The legislation introducing e-toll charge shall enter into force by 31 December 2025.

As regards public transport, in addition to the replacement of polluting public transport vehicles, a reform of the inter-urban transport system shall review and optimise the existing long-distance network, align coach routes with rail routes and the local transport system ensuring inter- connectivity between regional hubs. The legislative amendments enforcing this reform shall be adopted by 31 December 2024.

This reform is accompanied by four sub-measures: (1) support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business (Sub-measure 1); (2) support for the purchase of clean public transport vehicles (Sub-measure 2); (3) installation of vehicle charging/filling infrastructure (Sub-measure 3); and (4) support the development of RES fuels (biomethane gas, second-generation liquid biofuels for transport and green hydrogen) (Sub-measure 4).

B.1.2.1. Sub-measure 1: Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business

The objective of this sub-measure is to reduce the number of polluting vehicles to promote sustainable mobility and consequently to reduce air pollution in urban environments. Under this sub-measure support shall be provided for the purchase of passenger cars, minibuses, buses, lorries and heavy goods vehicles in the following categories and quantities:

-Light vehicles (class M1 and N1) - zero emissions (such as electric and hydrogen), priority given for vehicles for urban passenger and logistics services, total 12 250 units;

-Heavy duty transport vehicles (class N2 and N3) - zero emission and low emission, as defined in the Regulation 2019/1242 (electric, hydrogen, biogas produced from RED II compliant raw materials), total 500 units, of which 200 electric and hydrogen and 300 biomethane;

-Low-floor and high-floor minibuses and buses (class M2 and M3) - zero emission (such as electric and hydrogen), total 450 units;

-High-floor buses (class M3) - buses running on biomethane produced from RED II compliant raw materials, total 50.

As regards vehicles running on biomethane, it is expected that this measure does not do significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measure and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01). In particular, heavy-duty vehicles and high-floor buses shall be zero-emission or low emission or run solely on biomethane, which shall comply with the criteria set out in Directive 2018/2001 (RED II Directive). Biofuel and biomethane gas and biofuel producers shall have to provide certificates (Proof of Sustainability) issued by independent evaluators, as provided for in Directive 2018/2001.

Furthermore, it shall be ensured that vehicles supported under the Lithuanian plan only use RED II compliant biofuels, bioliquids and biomass fuels. Finally, the level of RES fuels in the national fuel mix shall also gradually increase due to the obligation on fuel suppliers regarding the blending of biofuels, which shall reach 16.8% in 2030, according to the Law on Alternative Fuels. A system of renewable fuel accounting units shall be created to record the quantities of biomethane gas and other renewable fuels supplied to the transport sector and the certificates given to producers to fulfil their RES fuels supply obligations, and therefore ensuring the consumption of biomethane and other RES fuels produced. The system shall become operational by 31 December 2021. All these elements together shall ensure that produced biofuels and biogas are consumed in the transport sector and replace the equivalent share of fossil fuels.

Under this sub-measure, support shall also be provided to support the production (assembly) and retrofitting of electric buses in Lithuania. As a result of this support, at least 35 units of electric buses shall be produced or retrofitted.

In order to ensure that the measure complies with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), the legal agreement between Lithuania and the entrusted entity or the financial intermediary in charge of the financial instrument and the subsequent investment policy of the financial instrument shall:

I.require the application of the Commission’s technical guidance on sustainability proofing for the InvestEU Fund; and

II.exclude the following list of activities and assets from eligibility: (i) activities and assets related to fossil fuels, including downstream use
[3](#footnote4)
; (ii) activities and assets under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks
[4](#footnote5)
; (iii) activities and assets related to waste landfills, incinerators
[5](#footnote6)
 and mechanical biological treatment plants
[6](#footnote7)
; and (iv) activities and assets where the long-term disposal of waste may cause harm to the environment; and

III.require the verification of legal compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation of the projects by the entrusted entity or financial intermediary for all transactions, including those exempted from sustainability proofing.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles

The objective of the investment is to make public transport more environmentally friendly by replacing polluting vehicles with cleaner ones and consequently reducing emissions and increasing the attractiveness of public transport. Under this sub-measure, the following shall be carried out: (1) a review and optimisation of the existing long-distance network in order to align coach routes with rail routes and the local transport system ensuring inter- connectivity between regional hubs (to be completed by 31 December 2024); and (2) support provided to municipal administrations and natural and legal persons providing public transport services (both concerning municipalities that have not developed and implemented Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) under 2014-2020 financial period) to purchase 260 new, electric and hydrogen powered buses (class M2 and M3).

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.2.3. Sub-measure 3: Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure

The objective of this sub-measure is to create an optimal network of publicly accessible and private charging and alternative fuel filling infrastructure, in order to create favourable conditions for business and citizens to operate clean vehicles. Under this sub-measure, the following shall be carried out: (1) an information system for publicly accessible charging/refilling points for electric vehicles made operational (by 31 March 2022); and (2) support provided to business and natural persons and the municipalities that have not developed and implemented SUMPs under 2014-2020 financial period to install and make operational:

-Publicly accessible electric vehicle charging points for natural/legal persons (in cities and near national roads) – 5 240 publicly accessible units in total;

-Publicly accessible very high-power charging infrastructure for electric heavy-duty vehicles and buses – 300 units in total;

-Publicly accessible compressed biogas stations (adapted for biomethane) – 30 units in total;

-Publicly accessible hydrogen refuelling stations – 4 units in total;

-Private charging points – 53 200 units in total.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.2.4. Sub-measure 4: Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen)

The objective of this investment is to create a supply of renewable fuels and to promote their use in transport sector. Under this sub-measure, the following shall be carried out: (1) support provided to establish and make operational a biomethane gas production facility with a total capacity of 27.1 MW (by 30 June 2026); (2) support provided to develop second-generation biofuel sector’s capacities with the outlook to achieve a capacity for liquid second generation biofuels of 12.4 KTOE (by 30 June 2026); and (3) support provided to establish and operational green hydrogen production from renewable energy sources, as a result of which a total of 1 680 000 m³ of green hydrogen shall be produced by 30 June 2026.

As regards the development of biomethane gas and second-generation biofuel, it is expected that this sub-measure does not do significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measure and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01). In particular, this investment is in line with the provisions of the Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (RED II), and the biofuels and biomethane gas supplied to refuelling points shall only be produced from feed stocks classified as waste or residues (raw materials in Annex IX of Directive 2018/2001) and shall not be made from food and feed crops.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.3. Reform 3 “Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment”

The objective of the reform is to increase the pace of the building renovation process by exploiting the benefits of the digitalised serial renovation of buildings, by broadening the integrated approach to the living environment, including adaptation of buildings to the needs of persons with disabilities, and by promoting a climate- and environment-friendly transformation of the construction sector and products. The reform is accompanied by four sub-measures: (1) update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities (Sub-measure 1); (2) creation of tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance (Sub-measure 2); (3) promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings (Sub-measure 3); and (4) support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards (Sub-measure 4).

B.1.3.1. Sub-measure 1: Update of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities

The objective of this sub-measure is to make the necessary regulatory changes in order to accelerate the renovation of building and to contribute to the greening of regions.

Under this sub-measure, a number of regulatory changes shall be carried out. As regards the regulatory changes, the following shall be adopted and enter into force:

a)Resolution of the Republic of Lithuania approving the Plan of Implementation of the Long-term Building Renovation Strategy, which shall provide for a legislative plan to accelerate the conversion of sites and the conversion of the existing buildings, taking into account the Bauhaus initiative, and to formalise the use of building information modelling (BIM) techniques, a plan for district renovation initiatives and investment projects;

b)Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation “Design and Certification of the Energy Performance of Buildings”, legitimising the energy performance class of the renovated building at least Class B;

c)Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation “Design of Wooden Structures”;

d)Guidelines for Sustainable Urban Development.

These legislative acts shall enter into force by 31 December 2023.

B.1.3.2. Sub-measure 2: Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance

The objective of this sub-measure is to create tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance. The sub-measure shall consist of a creation of the competence centre for building renovation (by 31 December 2022) and three digital tools as follows:

1) Digital methodological tools (for the preparation of investment projects, standard technical specifications for design and contracted works) for planning of green and innovative energy efficiency measures in renovated buildings;

2) Operationalisation and provision of service of two information systems for building data and building renovation projects administration.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2025.

B.1.3.3. Sub-measure 3: Promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings

The objective of this sub-measure is to create a local market for the production of standardised modular structures from organic materials, and to provide support to enterprises to build the production capacity of wood engineering materials and building components used for the green renovation of buildings. Under this sub-measure support shall be provided to the construction sector, the wood industry and the manufacturing industry. As a result of this support, production lines of modular structures from organic material production with a capacity of 750.000 m²/year shall be made operational.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

B.1.3.4. Sub-measure 4: Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards

The objective of this sub-measure is to provide support for the renovation of 518 multi-apartment buildings with a surface area of at least 880 000 m2 aiming to achieve on average at least a reduction of 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation, and energy efficiency class B. The support shall take the following forms:

(i) Compensation of on average at least 30% of the renovation works expenditure with support from the RRF for 320 buildings. The other buildings renovated under this measure may receive this type of compensation with support from the Union’s Modernisation Fund and not from the RRF.

(ii) compensation for the portion of the interest paid on loans taken out to finance these renovations exceeding an interest rate of 3%.

(iii) 100% compensation of technical assistance expenditure for the renovation projects

In addition, part of the loan financing offered for these building renovations may be supported by the European Regional Development Fund and Cohesion Fund.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.4. Investment 4: “Increasing GHG absorption capacity”

The objective of this investment is to reduce GHG emissions from former drained and degraded peatlands by re-wetting the areas concerned, and as such creating favourable conditions for biodiversity in these habitats and increasing GHG removals while also carrying out certain limited economic activities.

Under this investment, measures to restore water levels, restore good agricultural and environmental condition and put in place a monitoring system where necessary shall be designed and implemented. In order to have the least negative impact on the rehabilitated habitat, regulation of water regime is necessary, therefore special hydrotechnical structures, such as adjustable thresholds shall be designed and installed, as appropriate, to enable farmers to regulate the water level in the managed area themselves, maintaining the average annual water level according to the surface of the peat soil, i.e. no deeper than 10-20 cm. The concerned actors shall receive advice and training. Once the investment has been completed, the applicants are expected to fulfil their ongoing commitments for the maintenance of re-wetted peatland by receiving compensatory payments in the new programming period under the measure foreseen in the Lithuanian Strategic Plan for Agriculture and Rural Development 2023-2027. In areas concerned, economic activities which do not adversely affect the conservation of the restored wetland may be permitted. The selection of an economic activity shall be carried out on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific characteristics of the area and the environmental constraints involved.

Under this investment, the following shall be carried out: (1) regulatory changes to operationalise the national framework for the identification of damaged peatlands and to later manage the restored peatlands (by 30 September 2022); and (2) support provided to restore 6000 ha of peatland area.

The investment shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

B.1.5. Reform 5: “Towards a circular economy”

The objective of the reform is to develop a fully-fledged circular economy model with the involvement of all stakeholders, ensuring circularity principles and waste prevention in the industrial sector, expanding the production and use of secondary raw materials, increasing material and resource efficiency, promoting sustainable design and green innovation, ensuring the sustainability, durability, repair and renewal of products. As a result of the reform, an action plan for Lithuania’s transition to a circular economy by 2035 shall be adopted and enter into force. The action plan shall focus on waste prevention, recycling, product design and use of secondary raw materials, digitalisation, the promotion of green innovation, as well as on an improved legal framework and fiscal measures promoting long-term benefits instead of short-term solutions and results for a return of resources to circularity. The aim shall be to ensure a systemic institutional approach to the circular economy and close cooperation between the institutions involved.

The reform shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

B.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators  (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 21 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation to improve institutional and legal mechanisms to promote the production, transmission and consumption of electricity from renewable sources | Provision in the law indicating the entry into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into force of amendments regarding the Law on Energy from Renewable Sources, the Electricity Law and the Energy Law (offshore and onshore).    These legal acts shall establish that the public institution, Lithuanian Energy Agency, shall consult and provide methodological assistance on the issues linked to activities in the electricity sector, which would facilitate the processes for applicants and ensure that information is provided in a timely manner. These acts shall also:    - regulate the conditions for auction winners to sell electricity under bilateral agreements, as this would provide more clarity for investors on how to operate in the market;  - set long-term renewable energy targets for all sectors, i.e. set long-term national targets at the legislative level and create certainty for investors regarding RES development;  - establish a new type of permits – a permit to modernize (reconstruct) a power plant or electricity generation facility, as provided for in the Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources. |
| 22 | B. 1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.1 Preparatory steps for the development of offshore wind infrastructure | Milestone | Performance and completion of the preparatory work for the development of offshore wind power plants and the installation of infrastructure | Completion of the preparatory works by the relevant authorities |  |  |  | Q2 | 2025 | The following studies and consulting services shall be performed:  1) a study on the implementation of the infrastructure: technical solutions, technologies, the value of installation of infrastructure, cost-benefit analysis.  2) offshore wind parks connection to onshore route and substations’ place identification.  3) wind speed and other parameters measurement study.  4) seabed survey of the territory designated for the development of the offshore wind park.  5) seabed surveys for connection between the offshore wind park and land.  6) consulting services for offshore wind parks and their connection to the onshore grid.  7) territorial planning documents for offshore wind parks connection with onshore grid prepared.  8) territorial planning documents for offshore wind parks connection with onshore grid implemented.  9) technical specifications for the offshore wind park connection with the onshore grid prepared.    Results of studies, measurements and surveys shall be used for design of offshore wind park and their connection to onshore grid. |
| 25 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.2 Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities | Target | Creation of new (individual) storage capacity for electricity from renewable sources (MWh) |  | MWh | 0 | 7,6 | Q1 | 2025 | 7,6 MWh of (individual) energy storage facilities have been connected to the power plant and put into operation. |
| 26 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.2 Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities | Target | Creation of new (individual) storage capacity for electricity from renewable sources (MWh) |  | MWh | 7,6 | 15,2 | Q2 | 2026 | 15,2 MWh of (individual) energy storage facilities have been connected to the power plant and put into operation. |
| 27 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.3 Installation of other electricity storage infrastructure | Target | Installed capacity of new electricity storage facilities (MW) |  | MW | 0 | 200 | Q4 | 2022 | Entry in operation of four energy storage installations, each of 50 MW. |
| 28 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Entry into force of a legislative framework establishing a procedure for determining energy efficiency and environmental protection requirements for the purchase of road transport vehicles and for cases in which they are mandatory | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into force of the legislation which shall determine the energy efficiency and environmental protection requirements and the cases in which they are mandatory for road vehicles of categories M1, N1, N2, N3, M2 and M3 and shall be used to calculate the lifetime energy and environmental impacts of these vehicles. |
| 29 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Sustainable Mobility Fund that shall finance the development of alternative fuels and vehicle infrastructure is established and operational | Provision in the agreement / order indicating the entry into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | Sustainable Mobility Fund is established and operational.    The Fund shall be established to finance the purchase and use of clean vehicles, installation, modernisation and/or development of alternative fuels infrastructure for the vehicles in a targeted and continuous manner, to at least 2030. The fund shall also be used to support establishing restrictions for the use of internal combustion engine-powered vehicles, with the exception of zero- and low-emission vehicles. |
| 30 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation introducing an electronic road toll system based on the ‘user pays’ and ‘polluter pays’ principles | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into force of legislation introducing an electronic road toll system which shall be based on the ‘user pays’ and ‘polluter pays’ principles. The toll paid by the keepers of vehicles for the period during which the road infrastructure is used shall be converted into a toll paid for the road mileage (e-tolling). |
| 31 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania |  | Number | 0 | 6 625 | Q2 | 2025 | Number of additional clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania benefitting from State subsidies granted after calls for proposals:    a) at least 6 125 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) light vehicles (class M1 and N1);  b) at least 100 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) heavy duty transport vehicles (class N2);  c) at least 150 low emission, as defined in the Regulation 2019/1242, (biomethane produced from RED II compliant raw materials), heavy duty transport vehicles (class N2 and N3)  d) at least 225 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) low-floor and high-floor minibuses and buses (class M2 and M3);  e) at least 25 high-floor buses using biomethane produced from RED II compliant raw materials.    In order to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), vehicles running on biomethane shall run solely on biomethane, which shall comply with the criteria set out in Directive 2018/2001 (RED II Directive). |
| 32 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania |  | Number | 6 625 | 13 250 | Q2 | 2026 | Number of clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania benefitting from State subsidies granted after calls for proposals:    a) at least 12 250 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) light vehicles (class M1 and N1);  b) at least 200 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) heavy duty transport vehicles (class N2);  c) at least 300 low emission, as defined in the Regulation 2019/1242, (biomethane produced from RED II compliant raw materials), heavy duty transport vehicles (class N2 and N3)  d) at least 450 zero emission (electric and hydrogen) low-floor and high-floor minibuses and buses (class M2 and M3);  e) at least 50 high-floor buses using biomethane produced from RED II compliant raw materials.    In order to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), vehicles running on biomethane shall run solely on biomethane, which shall comply with the criteria set out in Directive 2018/2001 (RED II Directive). |
| 33 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of electric buses produced (assembled) and retrofitted in Lithuania |  | Number | 0 | 35 | Q2 | 2026 | At least 25 electric buses retrofitted in Lithuania allowing the vehicles to qualify as zero-emission buses  At least 10 electric buses produced (assembled) in Lithuania.    The selection criteria shall ensure compliance with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) of supported transactions under this measure through the use of sustainability proofing, an exclusion list, and the requirement of compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation. |
| 34 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Milestone | Entry into force of the inter-urban mobility system reform | Reform enters into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Entry into force of the reform of the intercity framework which shall review and optimise the existing long-distance network, align coach routes with rail routes and the local transport system ensuring inter- connectivity between regional hubs. |
| 35 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Target | Delivery of electric and hydrogen powered public transport vehicles (buses) |  | Number | 0 | 115 | Q2 | 2025 | Delivery of 115 (class M2 and M3) low-floor electric and hydrogen powered buses to public transport operators in urban and suburban areas. |
| 36 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Target | Delivery of electric and hydrogen powered public transport vehicles (buses) |  | Number | 115 | 260 | Q2 | 2026 | Delivery of 260 (class M2 and M3) -low-floor electric and hydrogen powered buses to public transport operators in urban and suburban areas. |
| 37 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Milestone | Entry into operation of an information system for publicly accessible recharging points for electric vehicles | Entry into operation of an information system for publicly accessible recharging points for electric vehicles |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | Entry into operation of an information system which shall:    1. Provide and record unique identification codes of publicly accessible recharging points for electric vehicles and their operators.    2. Provide real-time static/dynamic data from publicly accessible charging stations for electric vehicles operating in Lithuania. |
| 38 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of publicly accessible recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight and buses |  | Number | 0 | 2 770 | Q2 | 2025 | Publicly accessible electric vehicles recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight/buses installed and in operation, including:  a) at least 2 620 electric vehicle recharging points for cars;  b) at least 150 very high-power charging stations for freight/buses.    The types of recharging points for electric vehicles in terms of power and availability are laid down in the Alternative Fuels Act (Article 2, points 12, 16, 17, 18, 26, 27, 32). |
| 39 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of public and publicly accessible recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight and buses |  | Number | 2 770 | 5 450 | Q2 | 2026 | Publicly accessible electric vehicles recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight/buses installed and in operation, including:  a) at least 5 240 electric vehicle recharging points for cars;  b) at least 300 very high-power charging stations for freight/buses.    The types of recharging points for electric vehicles in terms of power and availability are laid down in the Alternative Fuels Act (Article 2, points 12, 16, 17, 18, 26, 27, 32). |
| 40 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of private recharging points |  | Number | 0 | 26 600 | Q1 | 2025 | During the entire period of the implementation, at least 26 600 private electric vehicle recharging points shall be installed and enter into operation |
| 41 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of private recharging points |  | Number | 26 600 | 53 200 | Q1 | 2026 | During the entire period of the implementation, at least 53 200 private electric vehicle recharging points shall be installed and enter into operation |
| 42 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of public compressed biogas and hydrogen stations |  | Number | 0 | 34 | Q2 | 2026 | Operationalisation and provision of service of 34 publicly accessible compressed biogas and hydrogen stations:  a) at least 30 units for compressed biogas;  b) at least four units for hydrogen. |
| 43 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Milestone | Adoption of the action plan to integrate electric charging infrastructure network | Adopted action plan on electric charging infrastructure |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Adoption of an action plan which shall identify the priority directions for development and set requirements for the installation of recharging points for electric vehicles in order to ensure the maximum efficient development of recharging infrastructure for electric vehicles. |
| 44 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Milestone | Entry into operation of an IT system of renewable transport fuel accounting units | IT system of accounting units for fuels from renewable sources operational |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | In order to ensure the level of consumption of biomethane gas in the transport sector, an appropriate IT platform shall be set up to record the quantities of biomethane gas and other renewable fuels supplied to the transport sector and the certificates given to producers for which the resulting gas shall be used to fulfil the fuels obligations. |
| 45 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Installed total capacity of new biomethane gas generation facilities, MW |  | MW | 0 | 27,1 | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into operation of new capacity of biomethane gas generation facilities of at least 27,1 MW. The installed capacity shall be considered operational on the basis of the connection of the biomethane gas generation capacity to the natural gas network and the information provided by the gas transmission system operator.    In order to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), the biomethane shall be produced from the feed stocks listed in the Annex IX of the Renewable Energy Directive. |
| 46 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Annual additional production of liquid second generation biofuels |  | KTOE | 0 | 12,4 | Q2 | 2026 | Additional 12,4 ktoe of liquid second generation biofuels are produced in the installed production capacity. The volume of annual production shall be assessed one year after the production begins. |
| 47 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Total amount of “green hydrogen” produced |  | m³ | 0 | 1 680 000 | Q2 | 2026 | After the development of additional new capacity for producing hydrogen gas from renewable energy sources, a total of 1 680 000 m³ of green hydrogen gas has been produced by 30 June 2026. |
| 48 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.1. Update of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities | Milestone | Entry into force of the following legislative acts:  a) the Plan of Implementation of the Long-term Building Renovation Strategy,  b) Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation “Design and Certification of the Energy Performance of Buildings”, approved by 2016-11-11 Order No. D1-754 of Minister of Environment  c) Guidelines for Sustainable Urban Development approved by Order of the Minister of Environment  d) Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation CTR 2.05.07:2005 “Design of Wooden Structures”, approved by 2005-02-10 Order No. D1-79 of Minister of Environment | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2023 | The following legislative acts have been approved and entered into force:    1. The Plan of Implementation of the Long-term Building Renovation Strategy, which provides:    1.1 a legislative plan to accelerate the conversion of residential sites, taking into account the Bauhaus initiative, to formalise the use of building information modelling (BIM) techniques, as well as assessing possible models for sites conversion, reconstruction or renovation of existing buildings;    1.2. recommendations for the preparation of quarterly renovation projects.    2. Amended Construction Technical Regulation “Design and Certification of the Energy Performance of Buildings”, approved 2016-11-11 by Order No. D1-754 of the Minister for the Environment, legitimising the energy performance class of the renovated building from 01/01/2023 at least B.    3. Guidelines for Sustainable Urban Development, setting out the indicators for sustainable cities and the methodology for calculating them.    4. Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation CTR 2.05.07:2005 “Design of Wooden Structures”, approved by 2005-02-10 Order No. D1-79 of Minister of Environment, expanding the use of wooden construction products in multi-purpose buildings. |
| 50 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.2. Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance | Milestone | Competence Centre for Building Renovation is established and operational | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | 1. Statute of the Environmental Project Management Agency establishing functions for administration of the Multi-apartment Building Renovation (Modernisation) programme as well as administration of financing from various sources as currently performed by Housing Energy Efficiency Agency, amended by the Order of the Minister of Environment adopted and entered into force.    2. One-Stop-Shop Building Renovation Competence Centre (EPMA unit) (50% of the vacancies at Competence Centre are filled) is operational. |
| 51 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.2. Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance | Target | Operationalisation and provision of service of three information systems for design of building renovation, for administration of renovation projects and Lithuanian Buildings Data Bank |  | Number | 0 | 3 | Q3 | 2025 | The following 3 information systems shall be fully functional:    1. Digital methodological tool for planning of green and innovative energy efficiency measures in renovated buildings;    2. Building renovation projects administration information system;    3. Lithuanian Buildings Data Bank. |
| 52 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.3. Promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings | Target | Operational production capacity of modular structures from organic materials |  | m²/year | 0 | 750 000 | Q4 | 2025 | Operational automated new production lines of modular structures from organic material with a capacity of 750 000 m²/year. |
| 53 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.4. Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |  | m2 | 0 | 300 000 | Q2 | 2025 | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings benefitting from at least one of the forms of support funded by the RRF (compensation of construction costs, interest rate subsidy and/or technical assistance). The accelerated renovation of buildings shall reduce on average at least 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation and achieve energy efficiency class B, the total number of renovated multi-apartment buildings is 173, and their area is 300 000 m2. |
| 54 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment - B.1.3.4. Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |  | m2 | 300 000 | 880 000 | Q2 | 2026 | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings benefitting from at least one of the form of support funded by the RRF (compensation of construction costs, interest rate subsidy and/or technical assistance). This shall include 320 renovated buildings benefitting from on average at least 30% cost compensation supported by the RRF. The accelerated renovation of buildings shall reduce on average at least 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation and achieve energy efficiency class B, the total number of renovated multi-apartment buildings is 518, and their area is 880 000 m2. |
| 55 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Target | Rewetted peatland area |  | ha | 0 | 2 000 | Q4 | 2024 | At least 2 000 ha of peatland area shall be rewetted. |
| 56 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Target | Rewetted peatland area |  | ha | 2 000 | 6 000 | Q2 | 2026 | At least 6 000 ha of peatland area shall be rewetted. |
| 57 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Milestone | Legislation, regulating restoration of wetlands (peatlands) and their further protection and sustainable use, entered into force | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Legislation, regulating restoration of wetlands (peatlands) and their further protection and sustainable use, entered into force. |
| 58 | B.1.5 Towards a circular economy | Milestone | Entry into force of Action Plan for the transition to Circular Economy | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of a Government Resolution approving Lithuania’s action plan for the transition to a circular economy by 2035, drawn up with the involvement of interested institutions and socio-economic partners, with the aim of involving all relevant authorities and coordinating the implementation and development of the circular economy in the country. |

B.3. Description of the reforms and investments for loan support

B.3.1. Reform 1 “Development of Green Financial Products”

The objective of the reform is the entry into force of the Order of the Minister of Finance approving the Lithuanian Green Finance Action Plan 2023-2026, which aims to mobilise public and private finance to meet climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives and to increase Lithuania’s attractiveness for investors in green financial products.

The action plan shall include the following:

·establishing a Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre;

·promoting the development of public green finance;

·creating the preconditions for attracting private sector investment to achieve green objectives;

·ensuring access to sustainability-related data;

·developing competences in green finance and public education.

Under this reform, support shall be provided to establish and operationalise the Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Center, to contribute to the development of a sustainable labelling ecosystem in Lithuania on the basis of international practices, ensure the dissemination of relevant sustainability-related information, coordinate cooperation between the public and private sectors and academia and promote Lithuania in the field of sustainable finance.

The implementation of the measure shall be completed by 31 December 2023.

B.4. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for the loan

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators  (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 58a | B.3.1 Development of Green Financial Products | Milestone | Approval of the Green Finance Action Plan | Entry into force of the Order of the Minister of Finance |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | Entry into force of the Order of the Minister of Finance approving the Lithuanian Green Finance Action Plan, which aims to mobilise public and private finance to meet climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives and to increase Lithuania’s attractiveness for investors in green financial products.    The action plan shall include the following:  ·establishing a Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre;  ·promoting the development of public green finance;  ·creating the preconditions for attracting private sector investment to achieve green objectives;  ·ensuring access to sustainability-related data;  ·developing competences in green finance and public education. |
| 58b | B.3.1 Development of Green Financial Products | Milestone | Establishment and entry into operation of the Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre | Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre has entered into operation |  |  |  | Q4 | 2023 | A Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre shall be established within the structure of INVEGA and enter into operation to contribute to the development of a sustainable labelling ecosystem in Lithuania on the basis of international practices, ensure the dissemination of relevant sustainability-related information, coordinate cooperation between the public and private sectors and academia and promote Lithuania in the field of sustainable finance. |

C. COMPONENT 3: Digital transformation for growth

The component of the Lithuanian Recovery and Resilience plan addresses multiple aspects of the digital transformation - digital connectivity, including the urban-rural digital divide, the digitalisation of the public and private sectors, and digital skills. The component includes measures to facilitate the 5G rollout, further develop the fiber infrastructure in rural and remote areas, and foster connectivity innovation. In addition, substantial reforms and investments aim to digitalise the public sector. The promotion of digital skills is envisaged for children, employees and senior citizen as well as measures to address the shortage of IT employees in the labour market. Furthermore, the component puts forward investment to promote the take-up of advanced digital technologies in the private sector, particularly regarding science-business cooperation for innovative technologies and the digitalisation of the cultural sector. Overall, the component includes five measures (three reforms and two investments).

The component addresses the country-specific recommendation to promote investment in the digital transition, in particular the coverage of and take-up of high capacity broadband (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2020). In addition, the component is expected to contribute to boosting productivity growth, including by making public investment more efficient (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2019) as it includes measures to digitalise the public sector which shall have a lasting positive impact on the functioning of the public administration and its productivity. The measures in the component also partially address challenges related to technological innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2020). Overall, the size and the scope of the envisaged investments and reforms for the digital transition shall indirectly contribute to mitigating the impact of the crisis on employment (Country Specific Recommendation 2 2020) and promoting investment for innovation (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2019).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

C.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

C.1.1. Reform 1 “Transformation of public information technology governance”

The aim of the reform is to fully consolidate state information resources so that the IT infrastructure, services and processes of public institutions are managed centrally, efficiently and safely. The reform entails investment towards:

a.Extension of the existing cloud infrastructure for information and communication technologies to the extent required by all public budgetary institutions;

b.Migration of outdated or non-security-compliant ICT infrastructure, as well as ICT infrastructure located in non-compliant data centres, by state budget institutions to a centrally managed hybrid cloud information and communication technology infrastructure;

c.Integrated upgrade and overhaul of technical and systemic software for local data transmission networks of obsolete and non-secure state budget institutions, introduction of a secure centralised management solution (4000 computer workstations);

d.Integrated upgrade and overhaul of outdated and non-security-compliant computer workstations’ hardware and system software, introduction of a secure centralised management solution (4000 computer workstations).

The entire reform is addressed only to State institutions able to make full use of the IT infrastructure services of the State Cloud after the reform.

The reform shall be completed by 30 September 2026.

C.1.1a Investment 1a “Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity”

The aim of the investment is to strengthen the State’s cybersecurity capabilities. The measure shall include the following elements:

a.Adoption of a National Cybersecurity Development Programme which is a 4-year planning document to be drawn up in accordance with the Law on Strategic Governance of the Republic of Lithuania and secondary legislation. The programme shall serve as a basis for the activities listed in points b-d by describing the cybersecurity challenges to be addressed and by identifying the funds and resources needed to implement the actions.

b.Establishment of a cybersecurity monitoring system which consists of the establishment of information exchange systems between users (cybersecurity subjects) and the National Cybersecurity Center under the Ministry of Defence and the establishment of security management centres.

c.Strengthening the capacity to investigate cybercrimes, which shall include investments in solutions for processing and analytics of big data, a testing laboratory on conducting cybercrime investigations.

d.Cybersecurity training of staff working in cybersecurity entities.

The measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.2. Reform 2 “Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data”

The aim of the reform is to ensure the availability of reliable public sector data, the possibility to share it, the possibilities for re-using the data and to create the preconditions for data-driven public policy as well as digital innovation in the private sector.

The reform requires direct public investment to develop a model of state data architecture and its management tools in order to increase the publicly available amount of data in the national data lake (NDL), thus creating the preconditions for re-using data in all state information systems and registers, and making this data available to the public, business and science.

The integration of information resources into the national data lake involves to following steps:

a.Create an interface with the data provider via the data sharing connection;

b.Describe the semantic structure, prepare metadata;

c.Process the datasets received (transformation, cleaning, anonymisation/encryption, connection, aggregation and other work taking into account the specificities of the data and user needs for opening);

d.Create an interface between the National Data Lake (NDL) and the Data Repository of the Open Data Portal (data.gov.lt) via the Representational State Transfer Application Programming Interface (API);

e.Realise the link between the National Data Lake and the Open Data Portal (data.gov.lt) via the REST API.

f.Develop a mechanism for the automatic updating of open data sets and their metadata.

The design of the state data architecture requires:

a.Carrying out an analysis of the data structure of the State Information Resources (SIR), the development and inventory of the SIR data metadata model, and the development of methodological, legal and organisational measures for the creation and management of metadata;

b.Installing an automated metadata management tool, developing an algorithm for the automatic filling of metadata, developing a metadata database structure and administration software, and developing automated input software for metadata;

c.Implement interfaces with SIR for automatic collection and updating of metadata from all SIR, provide the highest hierarchical metadata in the database, create APIs for data exchange within the State Information Resources Platform and complete metadata to include existing and planned API realisations.

The reform is directly linked to European initiatives to open up and re-use data. The envisaged investments shall allow for a smooth technological implementation of the opening-up of data by making an integrated use of public sector data for multiple purposes. The reform aims to address the problems caused by the decentralisation and fragmentation of public sector data. This infrastructure shall also include the re-use of high-value health data. The target group of the reform is public administrations, scientific institutions, business and the general public.

The reform shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.3. Reform 3 “Customer-oriented services”

The aim of the reform is the digitalisation of public and administrative services through full transformation of national and local government processes, full digitalisation, system integration, re-use of data, the highest quality of service provided and the user-orientation of the public administration. The reform shall be implemented in two directions:

a.Improving the decision-making process for the development and upgrading of new public services and increasing the inclusiveness of public services and accessibility of services for persons with disabilities.

b.Integrated investments in the digitalisation of public administration processes, the reception of missing electronic public services and the automation of inter-institutional data exchange, and the accessibility of tools for people with disabilities to access public services. The objective of the investment is to digitise public administration processes, to create missing electronic public services and to unify the maturity of all public services provided in Lithuania, so that inter-institutional data exchange is automated and information is accessible to all, without discrimination against persons with disabilities.

Furthermore, the implementation of the reform shall be based on the following principles: once-only principle, inclusiveness and accessibility of services, openness and transparency, cross-border by default, Interoperability by default, trustworthiness and security. Part of the investment (EUR 2 000 000) shall be channelled to horizontal development of digital skills.

The reform shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.4. Investment 1 “Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life”

The aim of the investment is to create the necessary conditions for science and business to effectively develop and deploy advanced and innovative tools and AI solutions capable of communicating, reading, analysing, understanding and interpreting in the Lithuanian language at an initial level and creating and ensuring universal access to digitised and digital resources that enable science, business and society to develop innovative technologies, services and products based on cultural content.

C.1.4.1. Sub-measure 1: Development of Lithuanian-language technological resources

The sub-measure aims to develop Lithuanian language resources required for the development of AI Lithuanian language solutions that shall be made publicly available, free of charge to the public. This includes the development of language resources which shall allow scientific and business organisations to improve the Lithuanian language AI systems and services.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.4.2. Sub-measure 2: Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources

The sub-measure includes organisational and technical measures in the field of publishing digital culture and information resources, adapting electronic services and products to people with disabilities as well as the development of technological and IT solutions for the opening up and re-use of cultural and cultural heritage content. The sub-measure aims to fund a centralised project setting a unified platform for the access and dissemination of the digitized cultural resources of at least twelve cultural resource owners, which may be implemented by a central project promoter. The digitalised cultural resources shall be made available and disseminated on a single IT platform. In addition, 20% of the digital (electronic) resources available through the national online publication platform ELVIS shall be suitable for persons with disabilities.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.4.3. Sub-measure 3: Production of digital education content and resources

The objective of the sub-measure is to develop the technological solutions needed for digital teaching, study resources and IT infrastructure in educational institutions to enable personalised distance learning. It is intended to provide schools with a digital learning resource base, acting as a national distance school, based on the link between existing and new digital learning tools, digital content developed by public and private publishers, testing and performance assessment systems, libraries, currently up-to-date educational content. To ensure the effectiveness of distance education, prototypes for distance and blended education shall be developed, tested and implemented.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2024.

C.1.4.4. Sub-measure 4: Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation

The sub-measure aims to provide financial incentives for business creation and digital innovation.

Business service centres shall be supported to deploy robotics automation processes and artificial intelligence solutions by financing expenditure related to (i) consultancy services relating to the initial analysis of the project on the processes rational to automate and the solutions enabling these processes; (ii) training costs related to the development of the ESA and AI solution; (iii) the acquisition of licences (robots, software licences) in connection with the project; (iv) cost of remuneration for time spent on project activities; (v) equipment and rental costs related to the installation and operation of the automated solutions (e.g. server rental).

Start-ups and spin-offs shall be supported to develop products and solutions for artificial intelligence, blockchain technologies and robotics process automation by financing expenditure related to (i) the development of products and services in the initial stage of maturity, prior to the raising of investment capital; (ii) the analysis of the needs of the market; (iii) the development of a technological concept of solution; (iv) the development of a minimum viable product; and (v) the achievement of the stage of marketability of the product.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2025.

C.1.4.5. Sub-measure 5: ICT Centre of excellence

The establishment of an ICT centre of excellence aims to develop and create links between business, academia and public authorities, to promote R&D for the development of technologies, products and services in a wide range of fields, to prepare them for the market (commercialisation), and to foster the exchange of ideas, knowledge and investment. Such centre would focus on increasing the accessibility of business-relevant infrastructure and services, including for spin-offs set up for commercial purposes by higher education institutions.

The investment shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

C.1.5. Investment 2 “Step towards 5G”

The objective of the investment is to ensure the effective coverage and penetration of highly permeable electronic communications networks, which meet the needs of digitally active undertakings and are adapted to the development of very high capacity networks, including 5G networks in a balanced manner. The measure aims at facilitating the 5G rollout across the country, and notably in international land transport corridors (Via Baltica, Rail Baltica) and other trunk roads and railway lines of national significance, airports and seaports. The measure includes financing by the RRF planned to be complemented by funding from the Connecting Europe Facility, other EU structural funds, national funds and leveraging private investment. At the same time, the investment also aims to develop fibre infrastructure in rural and remote areas, providing access to Gigabit speed broadband for 5000 socio-economic drivers. The investment also includes elements to encourage businesses and public bodies to innovate and to adapt to rapid digital connectivity by implementing at least seven practical applications of mobility innovations.

C.1.5.1. Sub-measure 1: 5G roadmap

The Lithuanian 5G roadmap plans a balanced, cost-effective and efficient development of 5G, aiming to achieve commercially available 5G services in 95% of the territory of urban areas, international land transport corridors (Via Baltica, Rail Baltica), trunk roads and railway lines of national significance, airports and seaports. To achieve these objectives, the 5G roadmap includes measures that aim to facilitate regulatory and investment conditions for the development of 5G. It should be noted that these measures are broadly in line with those contained in the EU’s ‘Connectivity Package’.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

C.1.5.2. Sub-measure 2: Further development of very high capacity networks

The sub-measure aims to develop gigabit infrastructure in remote and rural areas where there is currently no private operator’s infrastructure and such infrastructure is not planned in the near future. The developed infrastructure should facilitate the connection with gigabit speed of a total of 5000 socio-economic drivers. A study was launched in mid-2021 to identify areas where infrastructure capable of providing adequate quality of service does not exist or is not planned in the near future by means of radio planning and consultation with private operators. Socio-economic drivers shall be connected by constructing towers and rolling out fiber. Optimal technological solutions shall be evaluated for each case.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.1.5.3. Sub-measure 3: Innovation in mobility

Innovation in mobility shall be promoted through a competitive procedure, making funds available to a wide range of entities or consortia in the form of projects aiming to develop digital solutions to increase the digitalisation of various sectors through practical application of transport and communication innovations such as (i) autonomous transport, (ii) unmanned aircraft - drones, (iii) the Internet of Things, (iv) virtual reality (v) robotisation or automation based on 5G and the introduction of advanced technological solutions such as (vi) transport bills and sustainable management of mobility data; (vii) solutions for the digitisation of a unified ticketing system and transport facilities.

The solutions shall introduce and adapt public bodies to 5G mobility innovations (autonomous transport, drones, etc.).

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

C.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 59 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Milestone | All systems run by the State budget institutions migrated to new hybrid government cloud infrastructure | Completion of a complex renewal and reorganisation of the information and communication technology infrastructure of state budget institutions, and implementation of secure centralised management |  |  |  | Q3 | 2026 | All systems run by State budget institutions (these State budget institutions are determined in the Resolution No. 498) that are in outdated or non-security compliant ICT infrastructure, as well as those whose ICT infrastructure is located in non-compliant data centers, have migrated to new hybrid government cloud infrastructure in two strands:    1. Extension of the existing cloud infrastructure for information and communication technologies to the extent required by all public budget institutions and the migration of outdated and non-security-compliant ICT infrastructure of the State Budget institutions to a centrally managed cloud information and communication technology infrastructure;    2. Integrated upgrade and overhaul of outdated and non-security-compliant local data transmission networks, hardware and system software for computer workstations by State budget institutions, introduction of a secure centralised management solution.    Exception: Systems owned by State budget institutions that are managed by the State Enterprise Centre of Registers, maintained from the State Enterprise Centre of Registers budget and are operated in its ICT infrastructure, and are stored in compliant data centers, are not included in this list of systems. |
| 60a | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Adoption of Cybersecurity Development Programme. | Cybersecurity Development Programme adopted |  |  |  | Q3 | 2023 | The National Cybersecurity Development Programme shall be adopted by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania. |
| 60b | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance - Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Establishment of a national cybersecurity monitoring system. | A national cybersecurity monitoring system established |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | A cybersecurity monitoring system shall be established. This shall include: 1) the installation of hardware and software; 2) the establishment of information exchange between users (Cybersecurity subjects) and the National Cybersecurity Center; and 3) the establishment of security management centres. |
| 60c | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Strengthened capability for cybercrime investigation | The cybersecurity capabilities for crime investigation strengthened by installing software and hardware. |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Hardware and software shall be installed to strengthen cybercrime investigation.    A digital forensic laboratory shall be established to run high-level forensics operations investigating activities of Advanced Persistent Threats. |
| 61 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity | Target | Completion of cybersecurity training |  | Number | 0 | 300 | Q2 | 2026 | 300 staff members of cyber security entities of the public sector have completed cyber security training. |
| 62 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Target | The State Information Technology Services Department provides IT services to budget institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 on a consolidated basis |  | Percentage | 9% | 75% | Q1 | 2025 | 75% of institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 benefit from consolidated IT services. |
| 63 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Target | The State Information Technology Services Department provides IT services to all budget institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 on a consolidated basis |  | Percentage | 75% | 100% | Q3 | 2026 | 100% of institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 benefit from consolidated IT services. |
| 64 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on efficient data processing. | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Entry into force of legislation on the efficient data management. This includes amendments to the Law on Official Statistics or the Law of the Right to Get Information from State and Municipality Institutions that extend the functions of the Statistic Lithuania to the management of the State Data Lake (state data platform). |
| 65 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Entry into operation of data management model |  | Number | 0 | 1 | Q4 | 2024 | Entry into operation of a data management model. A centralised application programming interface (API) for data provision shall be created and the state data included in the data architecture model shall use a centralised API for data exchange. |
| 66 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Integration of information resources into the data lake |  | Number | 53 | 376 | Q2 | 2026 | A total of 376 information resources shall be integrated into the national data lake.  Implementation of the reform ensures efficient data management that avoids duplication of decisions. In this way, financial resources are rationally used, data quality is improved, the risk of personal data vulnerabilities is managed efficiently, data is inventoried, and data re-use is ensured. |
| 67 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Entry into operation of data exchange tool |  | Number | 0 | 1 | Q1 | 2024 | Entry into operation of a data exchange tool which complies with the appropriate accounting requirements.  The creation of a data exchange tool shall allow to send and receive and process electronic invoices on a large scale, which shall save material and labour costs in the country’s economy, and shall quickly pay off to the state. The data exchange tool shall be published and be accessible free of charge. |
| 68 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Entry into force of amended regulation on the provision of information to persons with disabilities | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2024 | Entry into force of amended legal regulation on the provision of information to persons with disabilities. |
| 69 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Publication of call for tender for innovative solutions and tools to ensure better communication opportunities for people with disabilities | Publication of notice for call for tender |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | Publication of call for tender for innovative solutions and tools to ensure better communication opportunities for people with disabilities. Technical specifications and public procurement shall be developed in cooperation with the target groups. Qualification requirements shall pay particular attention to suppliers’ experience, skills and skills to implement similar IT solutions. IT systems shall meet all the requirements of the EC Internet Accessibility Directive. (2024 Q1). |
| 70 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Entry into operation of a competence centre for open data and digital transformation | Competence centre for open data and digital transformation operational |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into operation of a competence centre for open data and digital transformation by a Resolution of the Lithuanian Republic.    The Competence Centre’s organisational structure is composed of two sections: one will monitor and evaluate digital solutions and the second will focus on data and architecture.    The Digital Solutions Monitoring and Evaluation Group, as appropriate, shall analyse and monitor existing solutions by assessing functionality and the challenges to be addressed. It shall assess new initiatives from the point of view of duplication of existing solutions and the advisability of technological solutions.    The Data and Architecture Group shall define the overall architecture of information systems and data, the standards and technical requirements to be applied to the newly developed solutions.    Each new proposed solution is expected to receive an initial assessment of the group of digital initiatives and, once this process and detailed draft requirements have been prepared, it shall be assessed from an architectural compatibility perspective. |
| 71 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Entry into operation of solutions for digital public services to persons with disabilities |  | Number |  | 2 | Q1 | 2025 | Entry into operation of two solutions for facilitating the access to digital public services by persons with disabilities: one IT solution to ensure better communication opportunities for the deaf, and another IT solution to ensure access to information for the blind. The services shall be provided by suppliers with appropriate qualifications by means of public procurement. |
| 72 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Satisfactory use of public services by persons with disabilities |  | % | 0 | 60% | Q1 | 2026 | At least 1000 respondents shall participate in a survey aiming to assess if the reform of access to public services by persons with disabilities has achieved its goal of publishing accessible information on websites and communication solutions meet users’ expectations. 60% of respondents shall say they are satisfied with and/or consider useful using the developed solutions. |
| 73 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Completed projects to digitise services and upgrade the level of maturity of the services provided |  | Number | 0 | 15 | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of at least 15 projects to digitise services and upgrade the level of maturity of the services provided by the public administration.  Projects shall be selected on the basis of an approved selection model and shall indicate the best and most efficient ways to implement them.  The projects shall be implemented by central level institutions and municipalities for the development of new services or the introduction of new technological solutions (projects for development of digital services and digitisation of processes shall aim to make digital services simple, convenient, proactive, interoperable, and the development shall be able to use solutions based on artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics or other advanced principles). |
| 74 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.1. Development of Lithuanian-language technological resources | Milestone | Delivery of Lithuanian language resources for the development of artificial intelligence and innovative technologies | Publicly available Lithuanian language resources for the development of AI solutions |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Lithuanian language resources for the development of AI solutions shall be made available publicly and free of charge. |
| 75 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.1. Development of Lithuanian-language technological resources | Target | Completed projects for the creation of Lithuanian language resources required for the development of AI solutions |  | Number | 0 | 5 | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of 5 groups of projects for the creation of Lithuanian language resources required for the development of AI solutions. |
| 76 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Signed contracts with the owners of the digital and digitised cultural resources for the opening of the resources and made accessible to users |  | Number | 0 | 12 | Q4 | 2022 | At least 12 contracts signed with the owners of the digital cultural resources for the opening of the resources and making them accessible to users. |
| 77 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Completed contracts for opening and making accessible to the users digital cultural resources |  | Number | 0 | 12 | Q2 | 2026 | Completed organisational and technical solutions for opening and making accessible to the users at least 12 digital cultural resources. |
| 78 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Digital (electronic) resources made available for persons with disabilities |  | % | 15% | 20% | Q4 | 2025 | 20% of the digital (electronic) resources available through the national online publication platform ELVIS shall be suitable for persons with disabilities.  The type of publications shall include customised e-books for people unable to read the printed text. The publications shall use inclusive publishing principles and shall be designed for everyone, including people with various impairments/individual needs. These publications shall be made available through the national online publication platform ELVIS (www.elvis.labiblioteka.lt) in a customised format. |
| 79 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.3. Production of digital education content and resources | Target | Entry into operation of digital learning facilities |  | Number | 0 | 1704 | Q2 | 2024 | Entry into operation of digital learning facilities which include technological and digital objects for education and studies (digital resources for general education, prototypes for distance and blended education, classrooms and audiences equipped for remote and hybrid education, digitalisation of curricula/modules/disciplinary content). |
| 80 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.4. Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation | Milestone | Publication of call for tender and approval of the financing terms for the development and deployment of innovative technological solutions in business | Publication of call for tender |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Publication of call for tender and approval of the financing terms by the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation or an order of the Director of the Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology. |
| 81 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.4. Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation | Target | Entry into force of contracts for financial incentives for business creation and digital innovation |  | Number | 0 | 184 | Q3 | 2024 | Entry into force of contracts for financial incentives for business creation and digital innovation:    1) 14 contracts for financial incentives for business service centres to deploy robotics process automation and artificial intelligence solutions.    2) 170 contracts for financial incentives for start-ups and spin-offs to develop products and solutions for artificial intelligence, blockchain technologies, robotics process automation. |
| 82 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.5. ICT Centre of Excellence | Target | Entry into operation of centre of excellence |  | Number | 0 | 1 | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into operation of a dedicated ICT centre of excellence. |
| 83 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Milestone | Assigned radio frequencies for the deployment of 5G networks | Assigned radio frequencies |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | Auctions carried out and authorisations granted for the use of radio frequencies (channels) in the 3400-3800 MHz and 694-790 MHz bands. |
| 84 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the relevant laws enabling faster installation of the electronic communications infrastructure | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of the amendments on the requirements of construction technical regulations and the installation of the electronic communications infrastructure in order to promote the availability of public mobile communications services in all premises in public buildings and facilitate the deployment of public communications networks in national and municipal road lanes, squares, bridges, viaducts, tunnels. |
| 85 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Target | Entry into operation of 5G services in urban areas and other trunk roads and railway lines of national significance, airports and seaports |  | % | 0 | 95 | Q4 | 2025 | By the end of 2025, 5G services are commercially available in 95% of territory of urban areas, international land transport corridors (Via Baltica, Rail Baltica), trunk roads and railway lines of national significance, airports and seaports. |
| 88 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.2. Further development of very high capacity networks | Target | Connect with gigabit speed private and public companies, non-governmental and governmental organisations and municipal institutions (socio-economic drivers) |  | Number | 0 | 5 000 | Q2 | 2026 | Connect with gigabit speed 5 000 socio-economic drivers – entities which by their mission, nature or location can directly or indirectly generate important socio-economic benefits to citizens, business and local communities located in their surrounding territory or in their area of influence, including among others public authorities, public or private entities entrusted with the operation of services of general interest or of services of general economic interest as set out in Article 106(2) of the Treaty and digitally intensive enterprises. |
| 89 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.3. Innovation in mobility | Milestone | Designate a competent authority for the administration of transport innovation measures |  |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Designation of a competent authority which shall draw up the programme of activities to be financed as well as the conditions and the selection criteria for the competitive procedure for innovation in mobility. |
| 90 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.3. Innovation in mobility | Target | Entry into operation of digital solutions for mobility innovation |  | Number | 0 | 7 | Q2 | 2026 | Entry into operation of at least seven digital solutions to increase the digitalisation in various sectors through practical application of transport and communication innovations such as (i) autonomous transport, (ii) unmanned aircraft - drones, (iii) the Internet of Things, (iv) virtual reality, (v) robotisation or automation based on 5G and the introduction of advanced technological solutions (vi) transport bills and sustainable management of mobility data; (vii) solutions for the digitisation of a unified ticketing system and transport facilities.    The solutions shall introduce and adapt public bodies to 5G mobility innovations (autonomous transport, drones, etc.). |

D. COMPONENT 4: Quality and accessible education for the entire life-cycle

The component of the Lithuanian recovery and resilience plan in the field of education aims to improve the quality and efficiency of all levels of education and training, including adult learning, as well as to promote skills development. The reforms and investments aim at: 1. modernising general education, 2. improving the competences and recognition of qualification for adults, 3. establishing a vocational guidance system and 4. improving vocational education and training (VET) including through work-based learning. The reforms focus on improving the access and quality of early childhood and school education, strengthening the competences of teachers and school leaders, updating learning contents and establishing a career guidance system. The investments aim to improve and consolidate school infrastructure, improve STEAM education ecosystem, establish a one-stop shop platform for life-long learning, support apprenticeships and fund individual learning accounts, support career guidance specialists, apprenticeships and participation in VET programmes, mobility programmes.

The measures included in the component support addressing the country-specific recommendations on improving quality and efficiency at all education and training levels, including adult learning and promoting skills (CSR2 2019, CSR2 2020).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

D.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

D.1.1 Reform 1 “Modern General Education – Background to Competitive Competences”

The objective of the reform is to improve general education to reduce achievement gaps among pupils. The reforms shall be accompanied by seven sub-measures: 1. Improving the quality of education 2. Reorganisation of the school network 3. Millennium school programme, 4. Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff, 5. Development of the STEAM ecosystem 6. digital education transformation 7. Improving early childhood education and care.

D.1.1.1 Sub-measure 1: Improving the quality of education

The objective of the sub-measure is to improve the quality of education. The content of pre-primary, primary, lower-secondary and secondary education framework programmes shall be updated by 30 September 2022 to take into account the latest scientific knowledge, and developments. Minimum indicators for monitoring the quality of school education shall be adopted and the procedure for the organisation and conduct of the external evaluation of schools carrying out school education programmes shall be amended by 30 June 2022 with a view to achieve better outcomes, greater inclusion and efficiency and to reduce achievement gaps among pupils. The procedure for the organisation and conduct of the external evaluation of the activities of general education schools shall be put in place.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2022. 

D.1.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Reorganisation of the school network

The objective of the sub-measure is to amend the rules on the creation of the network of schools carrying out formal education programmes with a view to set new requirements for municipalities concerning the size of the school, the rules for joined classes and further reorganization procedures and funding requirements. The criteria shall include the elimination of the possibility to merge grades 5-8 and a requirement to reorganise state schools with 60 or fewer pupils. The new rules shall result in reducing the number of joint classes; the number of small gymnasiums and the number of small schools (with less than 200 pupils).

The sub-measure will be completed by 31 December 2021.

D.1.1.3: Sub-measure 3: Millennium School programme

The objective of this sub-measure is to reorganise and improve school infrastructure and ensure equal education opportunities for Lithuanian children, regardless of where they live, and their socio-economic background. A progress programme for “Millennium Schools” shall be adopted by 31 December 2021 setting out the conditions and requirements for municipalities seeking support for school activities, teachers’ training and infrastructure development. It shall support municipalities to consolidate educational resources and strengthen existing schools with a view to creating an inclusive education ecosystem in schools and introducing networking-based organisation and management of education. The programme shall be implemented at municipal level. Municipalities shall apply for participating in the programme based on clear criteria. Several municipalities shall also be able to apply together promoting school networking beyond the territory of one municipality, connecting to larger entities, school towns. The plans for school restructuring shall be approved by the municipalities by 30 April each year. The programme shall also aim to increase the motivation of teachers, and the attractiveness of the profession through supporting teachers to improve their competences and acquire higher qualifications. At least 80 % of Lithuanian municipalities shall implement the “Millennium Schools” programme, supporting 150 schools.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.1.4: Sub-measure 4: Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff

The objective of the sub-measure is to support pedagogical staff in strengthening their competences by linking the qualification and continuous professional development systems. In order to ensure the quality of national qualification development programmes for pedagogical staff, requirements shall be developed for the design and implementation of National Qualifications Development Programmes by 31 December 2022. The flexibility of training and training systems for pedagogical staff shall be increased with the possibility of getting credits for acquiring higher qualifications including master degree, by the recognition of informally acquired competences and by studying a module of subject studies. The implementation of national professional development programmes shall also be monitored.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2024.

D.1.1.5: Sub-measure 5: Development of the STEAM ecosystem

The objective of the sub-measure is to invest in the renewal of equipment of the STEAM centres to ensure the continuity of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) activities, given the fast-changing technological developments. In order to make STEAM activities more accessible for pupils in rural areas, mobile laboratories shall be put in place in the STEAM centres.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.1.6: Sub-measure 6: Digital Education Transformation

The objective of the sub-measure is to foster the uptake of digitally driven educational innovations in schools and to strengthen the digital competences of all teachers. An expert team and an umbrella EDtech project shall be set up to support the development of digital innovation in education and to create a platform to test innovation in educational institutions. The EDtech platform shall link start-ups and innovators to schools and their training needs and allow the testing of innovative solutions. The digital competences at all levels of education, from pre-primary teachers to higher education teachers shall also be improved, and to promote the use of digital content and technological tools in the educational process to improve educational outcomes.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2024.

D.1.1.7: Sub-measure 7: Improving early childhood education and care

The sub-measure aims to improve the access and quality of early childhood education and care by reviewing the criteria for pre-school curricula to ensure that the content is up-to-date, responding to the latest scientific knowledge about the characteristics of pre-school age children, the identification of their abilities and preferences or needs, and the provision of education based on individual child development. Furthermore, a study shall be carried out by 30 June 2022 to map infrastructure needs for early childhood education and care to ensure to all children have equal access to it in the whole territory.

The sub-measure shall be completed 30 September 2023.

D.1.2. Reform 2 "Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults"

The objective of the measure is to put in place a unified model for the functioning and governance of the life-long learning (LLL) framework. All information shall be available in a single IT system. The system shall contain only programmes that meet applicable quality standard and shall contain a mechanism to identify programmes for acquiring high value-added competences. It shall ensure that higher education programmes are also offered in the LLL framework, which shall also allow high-skilled people to participate in competence development programmes. The governance of the LLL system shall be carried out through the National Human Resources Monitoring Commission. On the basis of the national human resources monitoring system, decisions shall be taken on priority groups of people with access to training funding, as well as on priority programmes/axes to be addressed. The legislation shall enter into force by 30 September 2022.

The one-stop-shop model for lifelong learning shall consolidate a fragmented framework for adult skills development, with clear roles and responsibilities for all actors and operational funding mechanisms. Given that there is currently no single electronic system in the country where individuals may find information on learning/capacity development opportunities, the aim is to create an electronic one-stop-shop for information. The development of the electronic system shall be based on the principle of an “individual learning account” and shall allow not only to find information on learning opportunities, but also to register directly in the programmes, and to provide a clear communication tool on the measures proposed by the State to develop competences. This one-stop-shop electronic system shall also be integrated with other electronic systems, such as the Employment platform. The one-stop-shop lifelong learning system shall be fully operational by 31 March 2023.

Competence development shall focus on the target group of employed persons (18-65) with a priority for the low-skilled and support/administration shall be based on the principle of "individual learning accounts“, encompassing both the IT service to access training, and the financing of adult learning. At least 21.6 thousand people are expected to be supported to improve – among others- their digital skills.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.3. Reform 3 “Vocational guidance system to balance supply and demand on the labour market”

The objective of the measure is to establish a career development and career guidance system which shall start at an early age (from grade 1). A career counselling and planning system shall help students to identify areas of interest and decide on possible career paths at an early age. Children shall gain knowledge of competences acquired in educational institutions to learn about the transition between different levels of education. Schools and municipalities shall become responsible for educational careers and career planning under the amended legal framework. Career guidance services in schools shall be provided by career professionals. One of the key elements of the system is the provision of quality information on further learning or career opportunities. This information shall be based on data from the National Human Resources Monitoring System. Career guidance shall also become an integral part of the LLL system, enabling people with qualification and/or professional experience to receive career guidance, which shall be provided not only through the LLL information system but also through the Network of Regional Careers Centres. The legislation shall enter into force by 31 March 2022. At least 380 career specialists shall provide career guidance services in schools.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2024.

D.1.4. Reform 4 “Competences for Green and Digital Transformation Acquired in Vocational Education and Training”

The reform shall be accompanied by five sub-measures: 1. Establishment of the National Platform for the progress of vocational education and training 2. Assessment of competences 3. Apprenticeship and work-based learning 4. Mobility programme 5. More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils

D.1.4.1: Sub-measure 1: National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training

The objective of the sub-measure is to establish a National Platform for the Progress of Vocational Education and Training with the participation of social partners representing the interests of business, industry, the educational community and public authorities. The Platform shall decide on the objectives for the governance of vocational training, the practical implementation of the consolidation of the existing training network, the updating of new professional standards, vocational training and non-formal adult education programmes and on the training, motivation and upskilling of trainers. Priority shall be given to improving the digital and technical competences of trainers and master trainers who shall be involved in national mobility and vocational training of apprentices. Support for upskilling shall also be available to trainers without relevant work experience in the subject to be taught and to trainers in small and medium-sized enterprises without pedagogical qualifications. The certification of trainers shall be updated.

The establishment of the Platform shall be completed by 31 March 2022. Improving the competences of trainers shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.4.2: Sub-measure 2: Assessment of competences

The objective of the sub-measure is to improve the recognition of acquired formal and non-formal competences. To this end, amendments to the Law on Vocational Training and to the implementing legislation shall enter into force and designate 18 competence assessment centres, which shall eventually become methodological centres in the field of education to pool knowledge through networking with sectorial training centres in the same field.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

D.1.4.3: Sub-measure 3: Apprenticeship and work-based learning

The objective of the sub-measure is to develop and implement a scheme complementing state support for apprenticeships and work-based learning, facilitating the acquisition of practical skills in companies by students. Special attention shall also be paid to the promotion of vocational training in the form of apprenticeships in small and medium-sized enterprises, which shall aim to target up to 70% of all supported apprentices and at least 40% of programmes in the form of apprenticeships shall focus on developing digital competences.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.4.4: Sub-measure 4: Mobility programme

The objective of the sub-measure is to strengthen and expand the National Mobility Programme to ensure that all VET students have access to practical training at sectoral practical training centres. The implementation of this measure shall lead to an increase in the number of vocational training graduates who have entered a job with acquired relevant qualifications.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.1.4.5. Sub-measure 5: More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils

The objective of the sub-measure is to ensure that the school pupils from general education programmes enrol into modules provided as part of initial VET. It shall help increase the attractiveness and quality of initial VET and provide labour market skills for general education pupils. It shall also aim to lower the entry age into initial VET programmes, which currently starts at the 11th year of schooling. Through the measure, pupils shall have an opportunity to enrol into initial VET, aligned with the new law on VET, in their 9th year of schooling.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

D.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 91 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.1: Improving the quality of education | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the methodology of the procedure for external evaluation of the quality of activities of educational institutions implementing school education programs | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation on the methodology which shall  -provide schools performance indicators organisation of education processes, support for students, management and leadership, school environment,  -set the procedures of self-assessment and external school evaluation;  -authorise the National Agency for Education to carry out the external evaluation of childcare centres and schools;  -establish the obligations for schools to improve school activities based on the data provided in the external evaluation. |
| 92 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.1: Improving the quality of education | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised pre-primary, primary, lower secondary and secondary education programmes (curriculum) | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Entry into force of pre-primary, primary, lower secondary and secondary education programmes (curriculum), that are the documents governing the content of national level. In order to take into account the latest scientific knowledge, and developments, the education programmes (curriculum) shall be revised. Entry into force of the legislation on the revision of the curriculum which shall cover  - the goals of pre-primary, primary education, lower secondary and secondary education,  - the content  - the levels of attainment of learning outcomes. |
| 93 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.2. Reorganisation of the school network | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the Rules on the Establishment of a network of schools conducting formal education programmes | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into force of the amendments to the Rules for the Establishment of a Network of Schools Conducting Formal Education Programmes which shall set new requirements for municipalities concerning the size of the school, the rules for joined classes and further reorganization procedures, funding requirements: classes smaller than those specified in the rules would not be funded. The criteria shall include the elimination of the possibility to merge grades 5-8 and a requirement to reorganise state schools with 60 or fewer pupils. The new rules shall result in reducing the number of joint classes; the number of small gymnasiums and the number of small schools (with less than 200 pupils). |
| 94 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.2. Reorganisation of the school network | Milestone | Plans for the transformation of the network of general education schools prepared and approved by municipalities in accordance with the newly approved rules for the development of the network of schools implementing formal education programs | Decision of the municipalities approving the plans by municipalities |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | The 5-year municipal transformation plans shall cover the transformation of the school network, in particular its strategic goal, objectives, priorities, key performance indicators related to the reduction of social exclusion, quality of education and / or improvement of pupils' educational achievements, more efficient use of funds, evaluation of the transformation of the school network, as well as a mechanism for the establishment, reorganization, and liquidation of schools.    The 5-year plans shall be prepared by the municipal administration and are approved by the municipal council. The decisions of the municipal councils shall be supervised by a representative of the Government. The implementation of the plans shall be monitored by the Education Quality and Regional Policy Department of the Ministry of Education and Science.    The decisions on school restructuring shall be taken by 30 April each year.    At least 80 % of municipalities shall prepare and adopt plans for the transformation At least 80 % of municipalities shall prepare and adopt plans for the transformation of their network of schools up to and including 2025, in accordance with the relevant rules. |
| 95 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the Millennium School Progress Program | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into force of the legislation on the Millennium School Progress Program, which shall include the following:  1) The lists of educational quality monitoring indicators of municipalities and schools (it shall be approved by the order of the Minister of Education, Science and Sports)  2) Amendments to the School Network Development Rules (approved by the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania)  3) Millennium School Progress Programme (approved by the order of the Minister of Education, Science and Sports)  4) requirements for the calls for municipalities (the targets, indicators, support packages for municipalities and schools  5) a monitoring mechanism.  The municipal applicants shall meet the necessary selection criteria:  1. may claim:  1.1. a municipality with at least 1 000 pupils in pre-primary, primary, basic and secondary education;  1.2. two or more contiguous (territorially contiguous) municipalities corresponding to criteria 1.;  1.3. two or more adjacent (territorially adjacent) municipalities, when one of them does not comply with 1.1. criterion.  2. Prerequisites:  2.1. a vision for the development of a network of progressive Millennium Schools has been developed: planned investments and innovations shall be identified, which shall achieve the Millennium Schools quality standard, strengthen the expression of the characteristics of the Good School, implement commitments according to progress indicators;  2.2. the general plan for the reorganization of the general education school network for 2021–2025 approved by the municipal council, which complies with the provisions of the rules for the development of the network of schools implementing formal education programs (e.g. no joint grades 5-8; in classes 1–4, only classes 1 and 2 or 3 and 4 two adjacent classes can be combined.);  2.3. the list of schools forming the “Millennium Schools” network in the municipality and meeting the criteria of point 3 approved by the municipal council ;.  3. Criteria for schools (does not apply to schools planned to be established):  3.1. the school does not organize the selection of pupils during admission;  3.2. number of students on 1 September of the current school year. There are at least 200 students.  The implementation of the program shall be monitored by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports (a monitoring group has been set up). |
| 96 | D.1.1 Modern general education – Background to basic competences      D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Target | Number of schools supported to improve the quality of activities |  | Number | 0 | 75 | Q2 | 2025 | 75 schools supported to improve the quality of activities through support packages (so called baskets) promoting school networking, connecting to larger entities, school towns. During the implementation of the projects, the investments shall aim at the development and improvement of school infrastructure improvement of the competences of teachers and school leader via training. The investment packages shall be distributed according to the sizes of the schools (6 different sizes). |
| 97 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Target | Number of schools supported to improve the quality of activities |  | Number | 75 | 150 | Q2 | 2026 | 150 schools supported to improve the quality of activities through support packages (so called baskets) promoting school networking, connecting to larger entities, school towns. During the implementation of the projects, the investments shall aim at the development and improvement of school infrastructure improvement of the competences of teachers and school leader via training, The investment packages shall be distributed according to the sizes of the schools (6 different sizes). |
| 98 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences    D.1.1.4: Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff | Target | Number of pedagogical staff who have completed qualification development programmes |  | Number | 0 | 8 020 | Q2 | 2026 | Following the adoption of a National qualification development programme, 8 020 pedagogical staff shall have completed qualification development programme, of which:  - 900 completed a Master’s degrees  - 7 120 completed a Training course. |
| 99 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.4: Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation laying down requirements for the preparation and implementation of National qualification development programmes for pedagogical staff. | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation on the qualitative requirements for the preparation and implementation of the national qualification development programmes for pedagogical staff which shall be developed and validated. They shall lay down the content, topics, implementation forms, requirements for providers of the implementation of national qualification development programmes for pedagogical staff. |
| 100 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.5: Development of the STEAM ecosystem | Target | Number of upgraded STEAM centres |  | Number | 0 | 10 | Q2 | 2026 | Based on the STEAM ecosystem development concept, the laboratory equipment of 10 STEAM centres shall be modernized. |
| 101 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.5: Development of the STEAM ecosystem | Target | Number of mobile laboratories |  | Number | 0 | 40 | Q2 | 2026 | 10 STEAM centres shall be provided with at least 40 mobile laboratories. These mobile laboratories shall contribute to strengthening the regional functioning of the STEAM centres, and be brought closer to the pupils. |
| 102 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of teachers who completed the course to improved digital competences |  | Number | 0 | 2200 | Q4 | 2024 | At least 2200 pedagogical staff (pre-primary, primary, lower and upper secondary schools) shall complete the course on IT competences and digitally-driven educational innovation in schools. |
| 103 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of higher education teachers who completed the course to improve the digital competences |  | Number | 0 | 800 | Q2 | 2024 | At least 800 university staff shall have completed the course on IT competences. |
| 104 | D.1.1.Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of teachers qualified as an IT teacher and acquired master’s degree in IT |  | Number | 0 | 500 | Q2 | 2024 | At least 500 pedagogical staff shall have acquired additional qualification as IT teacher and shall have acquired a master’s degree in IT |
| 105 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.7: Improving early childhood education and care | Milestone | Study on the feasibility of developing early childhood education infrastructure in municipalities | Publication of the study on the feasibility of developing early childhood education infrastructure in municipalities |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Publication of the study on the feasibility of developing early childhood education infrastructure in municipalities. The study shall cover both the modernization of the existing structure and the development of new infrastructure (such as transport), providing early education conditions for all children from birth to compulsory school age. The study shall provide a basis for ulterior government decisions on modernization of infrastructure and on creation of new infrastructure in municipalities. |
| 106 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences    D.1.1.7: Improving early childhood education and care | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the criteria (guidelines) for pre-school education curriculum | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2023 | The design of pre-school curriculum is decentralised and must be developed according to the criteria (guidelines) for pre-school education curriculum approved by the Minister of Education, Science and Sport. The entry into force of the updated criteria (guidelines) for pre-school education curriculum shall determine the competencies to be acquired by children before the compulsory school age; respond to the latest scientific knowledge about the education of children of the appropriate age; encourage children to read (develop a book-reading culture). |
| 107 | D.1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Milestone | Entry into force of the Law on Adult Education establishing a coordinated lifelong learning system (LLL) model and setting out the principles for the functioning | Provision in the legislation indicating the entry into force of the legislation |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation on the Life Long Learning (LLL) model which shall be enshrined in legislation and amendments to the Law on Adult Education enter into force, enshrining the functioning of the LLL model:  The governance and monitoring elements of the LLL system, including:  - the Human Resources Monitoring Commission and its functions,  -a permanent working group at technical level on the overall coordination of activities carried out by ministries,  -the principles of the LLL IT system (based on the model of individual learning accounts),  -the funding elements,  -the principles for the identification of target groups and programmes,  -the mechanism for identifying high added value competences,  -the quality assurance and  -the elements of the system for the recognition of competences. |
| 108 | D.1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Milestone | Entry into service of the one-stop-shop information system for lifelong learning | Entry into service of a one-stop shop lifelong learning (LLL) information system operating on the ‘Individual Learning Account’ principle |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into service of the lifelong learning (LLL) IT system which shall be fully operational and shall represent all learning offers related to the implementation of the LLL framework, including programmes with high added value.    People meeting the priority criteria defined during the implementation phase of the scheme shall be able to receive a learning offer and register through the LLL IT system.    The individual learning account approach shall encompass both the IT service to access training, and the financing of adult learning.    The system shall provide access to career guidance, gather information on competences acquired during training, as well as access to processes for the recognition of competences/qualifications. |
| 109 | D.1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Target | 18-65 year old persons shall complete quality assured training, at least 40 percent of which dedicated to digital skills using a unified LLL framework |  | Number | 0 | 21 600 | Q2 | 2026 | 21 600 persons in the age range of 18-65 shall have completed quality assured training (at least 40% of which dedicated to digital skills) within the LLL framework. |
| 110 | D.1.3. Vocational guidance system to balance supply and demand on the labour market | Milestone | Entry into force of the Government Resolution on the procedures regulating the Vocational Guidance (career guidance) system | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | Entry into force of the Government Resolution of Vocational Guidance (career guidance) procedures which shall lay down  -the framework, management and quality assurance of the system of career counselling and lifelong planning, starting from primary school and provision of services to adults that are provided integrated with the Lifelong learning (LLL) system, as well as  -setting out the functions and basic competency requirements of career professionals in schools, the funding model for services provided to pupils and adults, the scope of the institutions involved and the involvement of the social partners  -setting out basic standard of the use of National Human Resources Monitoring System information and setting out principles of Vocational Guidance (career guidance) system monitoring. |
| 111 | D.1.3. Vocational guidance system to balance supply and demand on the labour market | Target | Number of career specialists providing services in schools |  | Number | 80 | 380 | Q4 | 2024 | Career guidance services shall be provided in schools by at least 380 career specialists. |
| 112 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training    D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on the establishment of the National Platform on Progress in Vocational Education and Training | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation on establishing the Platform on Progress in Vocational Training which shall ensure a long-term and sustainable vocational training model in each region, the Platform’s roles and responsibilities, the roles of actors and the involvement of the social partners concerned on the competences required by the labour market.    The platform shall include social partners representing the interests of business, industry, the educational community and public authorities.    In the platform format, decisions shall be taken on objective principles for the governance of vocational training, on the practical implementation of the consolidation of the existing vocational training network, on the updating of new professional standards, vocational training and non-formal adult education programmes, as well as on the training of trainers and professional development. |
| 113 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Target | New/updated vocational training programmes registered to make them available for training providers |  | Number | 0 | 95 | Q2 | 2026 | Total 95 new or updated vocational education and training programmes prepared, approved and registered, following consultations with social partners. These programmes shall be designed to meet labour market needs, in particular supporting the digital and green transition. |
| 114 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Target | Trainers and/or masters involved in the training of apprentices and trainees |  | Number | 0 | 1000 | Q2 | 2026 | A total of 1000 trainers and masters involved in the teaching of apprentices and trainees have improved their professional competences by completing competence development activities. The improvement of competences shall focus on digital and technical competences. |
| 115 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.2: Assessment of competences | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendment to the law on Vocational Training on Centres of Excellence in Vocational Education and Training | Entry into force of the legislation |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Entry into force of the amendments to the Law on Vocational Training which shall establish the power of the Minister for Education, Science and Sport to appoint providers of vocational training to implement the assessment and recognition of formally, non-formally or informally acquired competences at level 4 of the European Qualifications Framework. The implementing legal acts shall lay down the accreditation requirements and accreditation procedure for such competence assessment centres, as well as a unified methodology for competence assessment to be applied by such centres. |
| 116 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training    D.1.4.3: Apprenticeship and work-based learning | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation establishing an apprenticeship and work-based learning support scheme | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Preparation, coordination and approval of draft decrees of the Minister of Education, Science and Sport laying down the procedure for implementing the apprenticeship support scheme.    The legislation shall lay down, in particular, the criteria, target groups, focus areas, forms of support provided, eligible costs for apprenticeships and work-based learning. |
| 117 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.3: Apprenticeship and work-based learning | Target | Apprenticeships completed |  | Number | 0 | 3 866 | Q2 | 2026 | 3 866 initial and continuous vocational education and training students in total obtained a professional qualification or part of it as apprentices in enterprises, of which 70% in small and medium size enterprises and at least 40 % of the apprenticeship programmes oriented towards the development of digital skills. |
| 118 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.4: Mobility programme | Target | Students who have participated in a national mobility scheme in Sectoral Practical Training Centres and have received a certificate of improved their practical and digital skills (at least 40% of participants shall improve their digital skills) |  | Number | 0 | 12 394 | Q2 | 2026 | 12 394 students in initial and continuous vocational education and training who received a certificate on improving their practical skills in line with labour market needs, in particular supporting the green and digital transitions, at the Sectoral Practical Training Centre. At least 40% of participants shall improve their digital skills. |
| 119 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.5. More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils | Target | Pupils enrolled in lower and upper secondary general education schools completed initial VET modules |  | Number | 0 | 4 900 | Q2 | 2026 | 4 900 pupils enrolled in lower and upper secondary general education schools completed for initial VET modules of which at least 40 % oriented towards development of skills to support the green and digital transitions. |
| 120 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.5. More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils | Target | Lower secondary pupils enrolled in experimental vocational training programmes received support |  | Number | 0 | 4 000 | Q2 | 2026 | 4 000 lower secondary pupils enrolled in experimental vocational training programmes received support. Experimental VET programmes allow 9th year students to start the European Qualifications Framework 4 level programmes, as opposed to regular VET programmes that accept only 11th year students. |

E. COMPONENT 5: Higher education, a coherent framework for stimulating research and innovation and high value-added business

The component of the Lithuanian recovery and resilience plan addresses the key challenges in the higher education system and research and innovation support framework. The key higher education related challenges are the existence of a high number of institutions that do not reflect the demographic developments and the labour market needs, lack resources and a critical mass to deliver good quality education and R&D. The current higher education funding system incentivises higher education institutions to focus on a higher number of students instead of ensuring quality and labour market relevance of studies. Moreover, there is a lack of attractive academic career opportunities, limiting human resources for education, research and innovation. The key innovation-related challenges are low private R&D investment, the fragmentation of the R&D potential and innovation system governance and weak science-business cooperation.

The objectives of the component are to reform higher education funding system and the student admission system that would create incentives for the higher education institutions to increase quality and labour market relevance of studies, promote quality R&D, cooperation and consolidation in the sector. The reform is expected to strengthen qualitative standards for colleges and universities. The component also includes a reform of innovation support governance and its framework, under which the currently fragmented innovation support functions shall be consolidated under one single Innovation agency. The reform shall also cover the revision of existing innovation and science-business cooperation support system with a view to make it more coherent. During the implementation of the plan, sectoral support for the design, implementation and evaluation of research and innovation policy reforms shall be available via the Horizon Policy Support Facility.

The component addresses the country-specific recommendations to focus investment-related economic policy on innovation, develop a coherent policy framework to support science-business cooperation and consolidate research and innovation implementing agencies (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2019), promote technological innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2020) and to improve quality and efficiency at all education and training levels, including adult learning (Country Specific Recommendation 2 2019).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

E.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

E.1.1. Reform 1 “Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions”

The objective of the reform is to increase the quality, efficiency and the international competitiveness of the Lithuanian higher education and science system. This reform is accompanied by 4 sub-measures: (1) Improving higher education funding and student admission systems (sub-measure 1); (2) Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges (sub-measure 2); (3) Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions (sub-measure 3); (4) Systematic R&D promotion in higher education institutions and research analysis (sub-measure 4).

E.1.1.1. Sub-measure 1: Improving higher education funding and student admission systems

The objective of the sub-measure is to revise student admission system to ensure that all students, entering both state-funded and non-funded higher education studies, meet equally high criteria. The sub-measure also aims to improve the higher education funding system and align it with the strategic goals of the country. The Law on Science and Studies shall be therefore amended to harmonise upwards the minimum requirements for student admission. The law shall also be amended to introduce a new higher education funding system which shall be based on qualitative indicators and agreements between with higher education institutions and the state. Contracts shall be awarded for the implementation of strategic progress measures: for the development of institutions, for the merger of institutions, for the improvement of the quality of activities, for investments in infrastructure and for implementation of other defined goals. The legal changes shall enter into force by 31 March 2023.

E.1.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges

The objective of this sub-measure is to define the missions of universities and colleges by setting qualitative requirements for each type of institution. The Law on Science and Studies and other legal acts shall be amended to set objectives and criteria for the functioning of colleges and universities. The legal changes shall enter into force by 31 March 2023. To support the adaptation of the network of the higher education institutions to the new requirements, five college reorganisation projects shall be implemented by 31 December 2025, giving priority to projects involving several higher education institutions.

E.1.1.3. Sub-measure 3: Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions

The objective of this sub-measure is to support to strengthen the international competitiveness of the higher education institutions. To achieve this, five internationalisation projects, covering attraction of foreign students, lecturers and scientists, developing the design and implementation of joint and double degree programmes; developing the provision of virtual services and other activities promoting integration of Lithuanian universities in the European networks of universities, shall be implemented by higher education institutions by 31 March 2024. In addition, 250 foreign students coming to study in Lithuania shall receive scholarships for their integration in Lithuania by 31 December 2024.

E.1.1.4. Sub-measure 4: Systematic R&D promotion in higher education institutions and research analysis

The objective of this sub-measure is to create a coherent science policy implementation mechanism by creating the Science policy implementing agency. The Law on Science and Studies shall be amended, and relevant infrastructure established by 30 June 2022 to create the Science policy implementing agency under the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports or the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, which shall be set up following the reorganisation of the Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology (MITA), Research Council of Lithuania (LMT) and other relevant bodies. The new body shall promote participation of Lithuanian applicants in the European and international R&D&I programmes, develop scientific excellence in the public sector and develop an analysis of science and study processes.

E.1.2. Reform 2 “Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development”

The objective of the reform is to increase efficiency of the innovation policies in Lithuania by revising the institutional set-up, legal framework for R&I support and increasing the demand for innovation. This reform is accompanied by 4 sub-measures: (1) Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies (sub-measure 1); (2) Increasing demand for innovation in Lithuania by exploiting the potential of public procurement (sub-measure 2); (3) Fostering the development of the start-up ecosystem (sub-measure 3); (4) Promoting the development of green innovation (sub-measure 4).

E.1.2.1. Sub-measure 1: Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies

The objective of the sub-measure is to establish a single Innovation agency by consolidating innovation promotion functions that are currently spread across several institutions. The sub-measure also aims to establish a coherent science-business cooperation framework. The Innovation agency shall be set up upon entry into force of the Resolution of the Government. Enterprise Lithuania (Versli Lietuva) shall act as a basis for the Innovation agency and the innovation-related functions and activities of Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology (MITA) and Lithuanian Business Support Agency (LVPA) shall be transferred to the Innovation agency. INVEGA shall coordinate its activities in relation to innovation funding with the Innovation Agency. The Innovation agency shall fully integrate the Lithuanian Innovation Centre (LIC) or LIC shall be reorganised by retracting ownership rights of public bodies. The new agency shall contribute to a coherent innovation support framework. The new agency shall be established by 31 March 2022. In parallel, the legal acts, notably the Law on Technology and Innovation, shall be revised with a view to close the existing gaps and overlaps in the innovation policy framework and clarify institutional responsibilities. The revised legal acts shall enter into force by 31 December 2021. A study on coherence of R&I incentives shall be also carried out, based on which other legal acts shall be revised by 31 December 2022 with a view to create a coherent set of R&I support measures.

E.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Increasing demand for innovation in Lithuania by exploiting the potential of public procurement

The objective of the sub-measure is to create the demand for innovation by incentivising innovative public procurement. A financial instrument shall be created to partially compensate the costs of 55 innovative procurements.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

E.1.2.3. Sub-measure 3: Fostering the development of the start-up ecosystem

The objective of the sub-measure is to support Lithuanian start-up ecosystem by providing acceleration services for start-ups. The Lithuanian Innovation Promotion Fund shall be expanded to provide acceleration and venture capital investments for 32 start-ups in the capital region. In addition, several start-up accelerators shall be established to support 140 start-ups, including 60 start-ups supported by specialized accelerator programme, 60 start-ups supported by international accelerator programme, and 20 start-ups incubated by the newly established European Space Agency incubator and Space Hub.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

E.1.2.4. Sub-measure 4: Promoting the development of green innovation

The objective of the sub-measure is to support the development of innovative green products and services and the promotion of circular economy and green transition in the industry. A financial instrument and specialized knowledge transfer platform (Industry 4.0 Lab) shall be created to incentivise the development of environmentally friendly products and technologies. 97 projects shall be implemented under the financial instrument and 3 projects – under Industry 4.0 Lab platform by 31 March 2026.

In order to ensure that all the measures comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), the eligibility criteria contained in terms of reference for upcoming calls for projects shall exclude the following list of activities: (i) activities related to fossil fuels, including downstream use
[7](#footnote8)
; (ii) activities under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks
[8](#footnote9)
; (iii) activities related to waste landfills, incinerators
[9](#footnote10)
 and mechanical biological treatment plants
[10](#footnote11)
; and (iv) activities where the long-term disposal of waste may cause harm to the environment. The terms of reference shall additionally require that only activities that comply with relevant EU and national environmental legislation may be selected.

Furthermore, as regards the financial instruments, in order to ensure that the measure complies with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01), the legal agreement between the Lithuanian authority in charge of the measures and the entrusted entity or the financial intermediary in charge of the financial instrument and the subsequent investment policy of the financial instrument shall

I.require the application of the Commission’s technical guidance on sustainability proofing for the InvestEU Fund; and

II.exclude the following list of activities and assets from eligibility: (i) activities and assets related to fossil fuels, including downstream use
[11](#footnote12)
; (ii) activities and assets under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks
[12](#footnote13)
; (iii) activities and assets related to waste landfills, incinerators
[13](#footnote14)
 and mechanical biological treatment plants
[14](#footnote15)
; and (iv) activities and assets where the long-term disposal of waste may cause harm to the environment; and

III.require the verification of legal compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation of the projects by the entrusted entity or financial intermediary for all transactions, including those exempted from sustainability proofing.

E.1.3. Reform 3 “Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation”

The objective of the reform is to concentrate science and business cooperation in the revised smart specialization areas, supporting the implementation of joint science and innovation missions. This reform is accompanied by 3 sub-measures: (1) Defining smart specialisation priorities (sub-measure 1); (2) Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation (sub-measure 2); (3) Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes (sub-measure 3). 

E.1.3.1. Sub-measure 1: Defining smart specialisation priorities

The objective of this sub-measure is to revise the smart specialisation priorities and reduce their number. The revised Smart Specialisation concept for a period until 31 December 2027, which shall narrow down the priority areas to three, shall be approved by the Government by 31 December 2021.

E.1.3.2. Sub-measure 2: Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation

The objective of this sub-measure is to provide support for science-business cooperation in the revised smart specialisation areas. Three mission-based science and innovation programmes shall be created, which shall result in the establishment of two excellence centres by 31 December 2025 and implementation of 21 R&D projects under the three programmes by 30 June 2026. Two excellence centres shall cover physical infrastructure and provision of services to support innovation in the areas of the smart specialisation.

E.1.3.3. Sub-measure 3: Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes

The objective of this sub-measure is to support the participation of Lithuanian science and business in the international R&D programmes. Lithuania shall develop a coherent set of tools to motivate science and business to prepare, apply and participate in the international scientific and innovation programmes. As an outcome, at least 477 projects shall be supported financially or in a form of services, out of which, at least: 90 feasibility studies for potential beneficiaries to participate in Horizon Europe activities; 32 higher education institutions’ projects under the European Research Area scheme; 24 projects under international EU-coordinated initiatives; 24 projects by SMEs and higher education institutions, 27 group consultation sessions; 240 advisory services; 40 memberships in international networks. To facilitate the investment, 15 fixed-term scientific officer and 15 national contact point positions shall be created and retained, as a minimum, from 30 September 2023 to 30 June 2026. National contact points shall facilitate the participation of the potential beneficiaries in the international R&D programmes while scientific officials shall promote science-based decision-making in the public sector and strengthen cooperation between science and the public sector.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

E.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 121 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.1. Improving higher education funding and student admission systems | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal acts setting up a system of contracts with higher education institutions | Entry into force of the legal acts |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of the Law on higher education establishing a model for the conclusion of contracts with higher education institutions, which provides for additional funding for merging higher education institutions, as well as for other strategic objectives (expansion of institutions, improvement of the quality of studies, investment in infrastructure and other operational changes requiring public investment). Potential mergers shall be in line with the plan prepared by an independent body or experts.    The award of contracts shall be formalised in the Law on Science and Studies, which shall be followed by the preparation of by-law contracts for the conclusion of contracts with the higher education institutions. |
| 122 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.1. Improving higher education funding and student admission systems - E.1.1.2. Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges | Milestone | Entry into force of amended Law on Research and Studies, changing the system for funding and enrolment in higher education | Entry into force of legislation |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of the amended Law on Research and Studies which shall:    - lay down upward harmonisation of minimum requirements for access to publicly funded and unfunded study places,  - introduces a new funding structure for higher education activities (basic funding, funding for strategic objectives, additional funding for qualitative indicators),  - define the missions of universities and colleges (which qualitative requirements must be met by both types of institution, what distinguishes colleges from universities),  - incentivize cooperation of higher education institutions,  - increase the funding component of R&D activities in the higher education funding structure.    The minimum student admission requirements shall be harmonized upwards and shall not weaken as a result of the amendment. New criteria for colleges and universities shall be set objectively, independently and adequately high. The role of external evaluations shall be increased. The legal changes shall promote cooperation and consolidation of resources in the higher education sector. |
| 123 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.2. Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges | Target | Projects completed for the reorganisation of colleges (renewed missions) |  | Number | 0 | 5 | Q4 | 2025 | Completion of five projects which shall cover the reorganization of colleges: consolidating existing study programmes, integrating and optimising key administrative and academic support functions and processes, optimising the infrastructure used. The beneficiaries shall be selected via call for proposals procedure. The priority shall be given to joint projects of several higher education institutions to ensure that optimisation of study programmes and infrastructure results in higher efficiency gains. |
| 124 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.3. Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions | Target | Number of internationalisation projects completed by higher education institutions |  | Number | 0 | 5 | Q1 | 2024 | Five projects shall be completed by higher education institutions designed to provide students with more international activities, attracting more students, attracting foreign students and lecturers/scientists; developing the design and implementation of joint and double degree programmes; developing the provision of virtual services; improving the quality of studies and broadening the offer. The beneficiaries shall be chosen by call for proposals procedure. |
| 125 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.3. Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions | Target | Number of people who have benefited from support for the integration of foreign students |  | Number | 0 | 250 | Q4 | 2024 | 250 foreign students received scholarships for their integration. Scholarships shall be offered for first, second cycle and integrated students, coming to study in Lithuania. |
| 126 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.4. Systematic R&D promotion in higher education institutions and research analysis | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal act establishing the science policy implementing agency | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legal act on responsibilities, functions and activities of the science policy implementing agency (under the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport or the Government of the Republic of Lithuania), which contains provisions of Agency and starting date.    All the infrastructure necessary for the operation of the science policy implementing agency shall be created. The science policy implementing agency is expected to promote more active participation of Lithuanian applicants in European and international R&D&I programs, to develop scientific competencies in the public sector, to develop long term analytics of research and study processes. |
| 127 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | The entry into force of the resolution of the Government creating the Innovation Agency and transferring innovation promotion functions from other agencies | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | The innovation agency shall be set up upon entry into force of the Resolution of the Government. Versli Lietuva shall act as a basis for the Innovation Agency and the innovation-related functions and activities of MITA and LVPA shall be transferred to the Innovation Agency.    INVEGA shall coordinate its activities in relation to innovation funding with the Innovation Agency.    Innovation agency shall fully integrate the Lithuanian Innovation Centre (LIC) or LIC shall be reorganised by retracting ownership rights of public bodies.    All agency infrastructure shall be set up by 31 March 2022. |
| 128 | E.1.2 Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised legislation on innovative activities | Entry into force of legislation |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Entry into force of the revised and amended legislation on innovative activities, including the Law on Technology and Innovation and Amendment to Resolution No 982 of 3 October 2018 on the granting of powers for the implementation of the Law on Technology and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania. The legal acts shall be approved by the Seimas, the Lithuanian Government, the Minister of Economy and Innovation, depending on the type of the legal act. This shall enter into force upon publication of the Legal Act Register (E-TAR).    The revised legal acts shall reduce the gaps and overlaps in the research and innovation policy framework, harmonize the support measures mix, and specify institutional responsibilities.    The revised Law on Technology and Innovation shall identify institutions responsible for innovation policy formation and implementation, principles of promotion of innovation-related activities. |
| 129 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | Entry into force of the renewed framework of incentives for business to invest in R&D | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Entry into force of revised rules for support for R&D measures (about 20 legal acts such as Ministerial Orders). The existing system of incentives for R&D has been revised, by implementing the recommendations of the conducted study on the R&D incentives for businesses. The Rules shall enter into force after their publication in the Legal Act Register (E-TAR).    The revised rules shall: reduce gaps and overlaps between different R&D support measures harmonize the support measures mix by setting up clear logical connections between various funding instruments, as well as funding instruments and various innovation support services. |
| 130 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.2. Increasing demand for innovation in Lithuania by exploiting the potential of public procurement - E.1.2.4. Promoting the development of green innovation | Target | Number of innovative projects implemented |  | Number | 0 | 155 | Q1 | 2026 | Number of innovative projects implemented:    155, out of which:  55 innovative public procurement projects,  97 environmentally friendly product or technology development/deployment projects,  3 Industry Lab 4.0 development projects to support circular economy and green transition in industry supported by a grant of up to EUR 3 500 000 in total.    The Industry Lab 4.0 development projects may receive funding also from the Digital Europe Programme.    The selection criteria shall ensure compliance with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) of supported transactions under this measure through the use of sustainability proofing, an exclusion list, and the requirement of compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation. |
| 131 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.3. Fostering the development of the start-up ecosystem | Target | Number of start-ups that received investment |  | Number | 0 | 172 | Q1 | 2026 | Number of start-ups that have received support, out of which:    32 start-ups supported by the Innovation Promotion Fund,  60 start-ups supported by the specialized acceleration programme,  60 start-ups supported with services or investments by the international accelerator programme,  20 start-ups that have received the investment from the European Space Agency incubator.    The selection criteria shall ensure compliance with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) of supported transactions under this measure through the use of sustainability proofing, an exclusion list, and the requirement of compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation. |
| 132 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.1. Defining smart specialisation priorities | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised Smart specialisation concept | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2021 | Approval of a new concept of smart specialisation by a resolution of the Lithuanian Government for the period until 31 December 2027. The concept shall identify three priorities for smart specialisation, and the thematic areas within these priorities, as well as a model for coordination and monitoring of implementation. |
| 133 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.2. Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation | Target | Number of centres of excellence in operation |  | Number | 0 | 2 | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into operation of two excellence centres which shall consist of the following elements:  a) physical infrastructure (such as prototyping and pilot lines, etc.)  b) provision of relevant services (such as certification and intellectual property management) |
| 134 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.2. Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation | Target | R&D projects completed via three mission-based science and innovation programmes |  | Number | 0 | 21 | Q2 | 2026 | 21 R&D projects completed, which shall be oriented towards three smart specialization strategies. The projects shall be prepared in accordance with mission-based guidelines for science and innovation programmes. The projects shall be selected during call for tenders procedure, with terms of reference including eligibility criteria that ensure that the selected projects comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) through the use of an exclusion list and the requirement of compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation. |
| 135 | E.1.3.  Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Projects and advisory services for potential applicants of Horizon Europe programme from higher education institutions and SMEs funded |  | Number | 0 | 200 | Q1 | 2025 | At least 200 projects and advisory services for higher education institutions and SMEs shall be supported:  a) at least 40 – to support preparation of feasibility studies for potential beneficiaries to participate in the Horizon Europe actions,  b) at least 160 advisory/expert services to support competences to participate in international R&D&I programmes. |
| 136 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Projects and advisory services for potential applicants of Horizon Europe programme from higher education and research institutions and SMEs funded |  | Number | 200 | 477 | Q2 | 2026 | At least 477 projects and advisory services for higher education and research institutions and SMEs shall be supported:  a) at least 90 – to support preparation of feasibility studies for potential beneficiaries to participate in the Horizon Europe actions,  b) at least 32 – to support capacity to implement European Research Area and Horizon Europe projects ,  c) at least 24 for cross-border EU coordination initiatives,  d) at least 24 projects by higher education and research institutions and SMEs which were judged positively in the Horizon Europe programmes, but did not receive funding (including projects which received the Seal of Excellence),  e) at least 27 group consultation sessions to support competences to participate in international R&D&I programmes,  f) at least 240 advisory/expert services to support competences to participate in international R&D&I programmes,  g)at least 40 memberships in the international networks.    Projects shall be based on the Horizon Europe accelerator plan developed by Ministry of Education, Science and Sports, Ministry of Economy and Innovation, Research Council of Lithuania, MITA, STRATA which shall be approved by the Minister of Education, Science and Sports. Projects shall be selected via call for proposals procedure. |
| 137 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Positions of Scientific Officers and National contact points (NCPs) created |  | Number | 0 | 30 | Q2 | 2026 | 30 temporary posts retained until 30 June 2026, out of which:  15 posts of Horizon Europe national contact points, who shall act as the main contact persons for Lithuanian applicants to inform them about European Horizon programme: such as on ongoing calls, submission of proposals and finding partners.  15 posts of science and innovation officers in the Lithuanian Government (sectoral ministries and the office of the Government). Their main functions shall be: to provide an advice and to form a culture of science-based decision-making in the public sector and to strengthen cooperation between science and the public sector.  The model for the establishment of posts of scientific officers shall be prepared in cooperation with STRATA. |

E.3. Description of the reforms and investments for loan support

E.3.1. Investment 1 “Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development”

This measure aims at improving the access to finance of companies for the development of green and high value-added technologies and the competitiveness of the Lithuanian defence and security industry.

The Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania shall adopt the Guidelines for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry 2023-2027 through Ministerial Order to improve the competitiveness of the Lithuanian defence and security industry.

Furthermore, this measure shall consist of a public investment in a Facility in order to incentivise private investment and improve access to finance in green and high value-added technologies as well as the competitiveness of the Lithuanian defence and security industry. The Facility shall operate by providing subordinated, syndicated and direct loans directly to the private sector. On the basis of the RRF investment, the Facility aims at initially providing at least EUR 850 000 000 of financing.

The Facility shall be managed by INVEGA as the Implementing Partner. INVEGA shall provide debt financing (co-finance business projects with private financial institutions (mainly in the form of subordinated loans) or, where a market survey has shown the need for it, finance business projects directly) to:

·projects contributing to at least one of the following objectives: developing circularity, decarbonisation, energy efficiency, environmentally friendly, low-waste, advanced, innovative and digital technologies, production capacity for high value-added products, or

·projects in the defence and security industry.

In order to implement the investment into the Facility, Lithuania and INVEGA shall sign a Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) that shall include the following content:

1.Description of the decision-making process of the Facility: The final investment decision of the Facility shall be taken by a Credit Committee, INVEGA Management Board or other relevant equivalent governing body and approved by a majority of votes from members who are independent from the government.

2.Key requirements of the associated investment strategy, which shall include:

a.The description of the financial products and eligible final beneficiaries. For strategic investments (i.e. those in defence technologies and products identified in the annual work programme for the European Defence Fund; space investments in atomic clocks, strategic launchers; space products; and investments focusing solely on developing and deploying cybersecurity tools and solutions, including when these are part of deploying or upgrading digital networks and data infrastructure) final beneficiaries shall not be controlled by a third country or third country entities and shall have their executive management in the Union except for investments below EUR 10 000 000. If the final beneficiary is involved in a strategic investment in the field of 5G connectivity, the measures and risk mitigation plans, pursuant to the 5G Cybersecurity Toolbox, shall also apply to its suppliers. Such suppliers notably include vendors of telecom equipment and manufactures and other third-party suppliers, such as cloud infrastructure providers, managed service providers, systems integrators, security and maintenance contractors and transmission equipment manufacturers. Where the final beneficiary is involved in a strategic investment in the field of defence, this limitation shall also apply to its suppliers and subcontractors. The limitations concerning the absence of control by a third country or third country entity set out above do not apply for a particular financing and investment operation where the final beneficiary can demonstrate that it is a legal entity for which the Member State in which it is established has approved a guarantee in line with the principles concerning eligible entities set out in the relevant provisions of the European Defence Fund (‘EDF’) Regulation or the Commission waiver granted in accordance with principles concerning eligible entities set out in the relevant provisions of the Space Regulation. The implementing partner must notify the government of any derogation granted to the limitations.

b.The requirement that all investments supported are financially viable.

c.The requirement to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ (DNSH) principle as set out in the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01). In particular, the investment strategy shall exclude the following list of activities and assets from eligibility: (i) activities and assets related to fossil fuels, including downstream use
[15](#footnote16)
, (ii) activities and assets under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks
[16](#footnote17)
, (iii) activities and assets related to waste landfills, incinerators
[17](#footnote18)
 and mechanical biological treatment plants
[18](#footnote19)
. Furthermore, the investment strategy shall require compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation of the final beneficiaries of the Facility.

d.The requirement that final beneficiaries of the Facility shall not receive support from other Union instruments to cover the same cost.

3.The amount covered by the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement), the fee structure for the Implementing Partner and the requirement to reinvest any reflows according to the investment strategy of the Facility unless they are used to service loan repayments of the Recovery and Resilience Facility.

4.Monitoring, audit, and control requirements, including:

a.The description of main principles of the Implementing Partner’s monitoring system to report on the investment mobilised.

b.The description of main principles of the Implementing Partner’s procedures that aim to ensure the prevention, detection and correction of fraud, corruption, and conflicts of interests in the Implementing Partner’s activities.

c.The obligation to verify the eligibility of every operation in accordance with the requirements laid out in the Implementing Agreement before committing to finance an operation.

d.The obligation of carrying out risk-based ex-post checks in accordance with an internal checks’ plan of INVEGA. These checks shall verify i) that the INVEGA’s control systems are effective, including the detection of fraud, corruption, and conflict of interests; ii) compliance with the DNSH principle and the State Aid rules; and iii) that the requirement that final beneficiaries of the Facility have not received support from other Union instruments to cover the same cost is respected. The audits shall also verify the legality of the transactions and that the conditions of the applicable Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) are being respected.

The implementation of the measure shall be completed by 31 August 2026.

E.4. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for loan support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 137a | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Guidelines for Defence and Security Industrial Development 2023-2027 | Entry into force of Guidelines for Defence and Security Industrial Development 2023-2027 |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | Adoption and entry into force of Guidelines for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry 2023-2027, by Order of the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania, to improve the competitiveness of the Lithuanian defence and security industry. |
| 137b | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) | Entry into force of the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Entry into force of the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) |
| 137c | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Publication of call for applications by INVEGA | Publication of call |  |  |  | Q1 | 2025 | INVEGA shall launch a call for enterprises to submit applications for loans in line with the requirements specified in the description of the measure. |
| 137d | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |  | % | 0% | 20% | Q3 | 2025 | INVEGA shall have entered into legal financing agreements with final beneficiaries for an amount necessary to use at least 20% of the RRF investment into the Facility (taking into account management fees). |
| 137e | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |  | % | 20% | 100% | Q2 | 2026 | INVEGA shall have entered into legal financing agreements with final beneficiaries for an amount necessary to use at least 100% of the RRF investment into the Facility (taking into account management fees). |
| 137f | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Completion of the RRF investment | Certificate or other equivalent proof of transfer |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Lithuania shall transfer EUR 850 000 000 to INVEGA for the Facility. |

F. COMPONENT 6: Efficient public sector and preconditions to recover after the pandemic

This component of the Lithuanian recovery and resilience plan contributes to addressing challenges linked to the tax system, tax compliance, the budgetary framework, human resource management in the public sector and business insolvency management. The objectives of the component are to improve tax compliance and balance the tax system; to improve public sector human resource management; to improve medium-term budgetary planning and expenditure management; to increase financial independence of municipalities; and to increase the variety of financial instruments to boost public investment.

The component contains measures targeted at broadening the tax base to sources less detrimental to growth, as well as legal and technical measures to improve tax compliance, and to improve the design of the tax and benefit system to help reduce income inequality and poverty. It also incorporates several reform measures related to the budgetary framework: establishment of a medium-term budgetary planning and spending reviews, fine-tuning budget amendment procedures, promoting the use of public-private partnerships in the process of public investment, revising the municipal revenue structure, consolidating four national development institutions into one public body and developing four digital tools which are expected to help businesses to manage insolvency risks. In addition, the component comprises a reform on human resource management and staff development in the public sector.

The component contributes to addressing the country-specific recommendation to improve tax compliance and broaden the tax base to sources less detrimental to growth (Country Specific Recommendation 1 2019). Furthermore, through additional tax revenues and potential savings thanks to spending reviews, the component also contributes to addressing recommendations on strengthening the tax and benefit system (Country Specific Recommendation 1 2019 and Country Specific Recommendation 2 2020). A number of measures related to the budgetary framework contribute to making public investment more efficient (Country Specific Recommendation 3 2019).

It is expected that no measure in this component does significant harm to environmental objectives within the meaning of Article 17 of Regulation (EU) 2020/852, taking into account the description of the measures and the mitigating steps set out in the recovery and resilience plan in accordance with the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

F.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

F.1.1. Reform 1 “An Efficient Public Sector”

This reform aims to reform the civil service by improving administrative processes, human resources management and strengthening customer-orientation in the public sector. Implementation of this reform shall require the adoption of the relevant legislation, including amendments to the Law on the Civil Service.

This reform consists of two sub-measures: (1) modernization of human resources management system in the public sector (sub-measure 1); (2) establishment of a centralised training system for developing competences in the public sector (sub-measure 2).

F.1.1.1 Sub-measure 1: Modernization of human resources management system in the public sector

The objective of this sub-measure is to modernize the human resources management system in the public sector. It is expected to make human resources management processes more efficient, enabling centralized talent and career management.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

F.1.1.2 Sub-measure 2: Establishment of a centralised training system for developing competences in the public sector

The objective of this sub-measure is the creation of training modules focused on digital, financial-analytical and leadership skills within a centralised training system for developing competences of public sector employees.

At least 16 000 trainings shall be completed on digital, financial-analytical or leadership skills.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2026.

F.1.2. Reform 2 “A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system”

The objective of the reform is to create the conditions for rebalancing the tax system by ensuring a socially fairer, growth-friendly tax structure, encouraging consumers to change behaviour through taxation to adapt to the changing needs of society. This reform consists of three sub-measures: (1) the abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal (sub-measure 1); (2) further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth (sub-measure 2); (3) an assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality (sub-measure 3).

F.1.2.1. Sub-measure 1: The abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal.

The objective of this measure is to identify tax exemptions and special tax regimes which are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal and amend the respective tax laws. The Ministry of Finance shall carry out a cost-benefit analysis and draft the necessary amendments to the legislation to be adopted by the Parliament. The amendments shall come into force by 31 March 2023.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

F.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth

The aim of this measure is to broaden the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth. The Ministry of Finance shall prepare a study on possibilities to broaden the tax base and draft the necessary amendments to the legislation to be adopted by the Parliament. The analysis will focus on the real estate tax, excise duties on energy products and other green taxes. The amendments shall come into force by 31 March 2023.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

F.1.2.3. Sub-measure 3: An assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality

The aim of this measure is to adjust the personal income tax and social insurance contributions in order to better prevent poverty and reduce income inequality. The Ministry of Finance shall prepare a study on possible adjustments to the personal income tax and social insurance contributions and draft the necessary amendments to the legislation to be adopted by the Parliament. The amendments shall be adopted by the Parliament by 31 December 2022 with a view to coming into effect not earlier than 2024.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

F.1.3. Reform 3 “Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget”

The aim of the reform is to increase the long-term sustainability of the state and municipal budgets, transparency of medium-term budgeting and funding of state services. It also focuses on spending reviews and ways to increase financial independence of municipalities. This reform consists of five sub-measures: (1) improvements to the budgetary framework (sub-measure 1); (2) spending reviews (sub-measure 2); (3) enhancing the structure of municipal revenues (sub-measure 3); (4) Promoting public-private partnerships (sub-measure 4); (5) consolidation of the national promotional institutions (sub-measure 5).

F.1.3.1. Sub-measure 1: Improvements to the budgetary framework

The aim of this sub-measure is to prepare and adopt methodologies on the medium-term budgeting and basic costs calculation. It also aims to adopt the amendments to the Law on the Budget Structure in order to clarify the rules of budget amendments. In addition, the budgeting tool within the Strategic Management Information System shall enter into operation in order to automate medium-term budgeting. A medium-term budget for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2027 shall be prepared and endorsed by the Government.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2024.

F.1.3.2. Sub-measure 2: Spending reviews

The aim of this sub-measure is to develop a concept of spending reviews and perform the first comprehensive spending review. The results of the comprehensive spending review shall be made public and shall feed into the preparation of the first medium-term budgets for the period from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2027.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2024.

F.1.3.3. Sub-measure 3: Enhancing the structure of municipal revenues

The aim of this sub-measure is to identify ways on how to improve the structure of municipal revenues, especially by increasing the share of revenues which are directly determined by the municipalities. Implementation of this reform shall require to amend the Law on the Methodology of Determination of the Municipal Budget Revenue and create analytical tools allowing to compare municipal fiscal indicators and assess municipal capacity to raise revenues.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2023.

F.1.3.4. Sub-measure 4: Promoting public-private partnerships

The aim of this sub-measure is to draw up and adopt a legislative package which would:

·enable the implementation of public-private partnerships in the strategically most important areas, such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, sustainable transport, and areas with the greatest investment needs, such as justice and public order and public safety;

·help to attract private investors to public projects by providing the long term sustainable investment plans and developing balanced mutually beneficial risk allocation mechanisms;

·allow grouping of municipal investment projects, which would make them more attractive to investors;

·enable municipalities to participate in public-private partnership programmes organised by the state, which is expected to reduce administrative costs.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2023.

F.1.3.5. Sub-measure 5: Consolidation of the national development institutions

The aim of this sub-measure is to consolidate four national development institutions into one public body. The objective of the institution shall be to concentrate knowledge and competencies in one strong national development institution, INVEGA, to unify and optimise national development institution operational practices and fund management, creating preconditions to attract institutional investors, strengthen public-private partnership, and sustainably increase the supply of financial instruments to finance financially viable projects.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2023.

F.1.4. Reform 4 “Improving tax compliance”

The aim of this reform is to improve tax compliance in high-risk sectors and to increase the transparency of transactions. This reform consists of five sub-measures: (1) more transparency in the trade in used vehicles (sub-measure 1); (2) fair taxation of online economic activities (sub-measure 2); (3) limiting the use of cash (sub-measure 3); (4) financially literate future taxpayers (sub-measure 4); (5) more transparency in the construction sector (sub-measure 5).

F.1.4.1. Sub-measure 1: More transparency in the trade in used vehicles

The aim of this sub-measure is to improve the control of sales of used vehicles by collecting data on their actual owners and sellers. With the entry into force of the amendments to the Law on the Road Safety, a system of vehicle owners’ accounts has been introduced to identify the actual sellers and owners of vehicles and to ensure that their tax obligations are met. Access to data of the vehicle owners’ accounting system has been ensured for the State Tax Inspectorate.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2021.

F.1.4.2. Sub-measure 2: Fair taxation of online economic activities

The aim of this sub-measure is to amend the national legislation in order to oblige online platform operations to collect and report data on transactions carried out on online platforms to the tax authorities by 31 January of the year following the calendar year to which the information relates. The State Tax Inspectorate shall receive the first set of data by 31 March 2024.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2024.

F.1.4.3. Sub-measure 3: Limiting the use of cash

The aim of this sub-measure is to amend the national legislation in order to limit the use of cash in certain economic sectors and/or for certain types of transactions, with a view to reducing the size of the shadow economy. Amendments to legislation shall be proposed based on the analysis performed by the Ministry of Finance.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

F.1.4.4. Sub-measure 4: Financially literate future taxpayers

This sub-measure aims to develop educational material for pupils and students to enhance their understanding of taxes and tax compliance. In addition, an infrastructure for cashless payments shall be developed in schools, and pupils shall be provided with electronic pupil’s cards that contain a payment function. Furthermore, an information campaign on taxation and the activities of the tax administration shall be organised.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

F.1.4.5. Sub-measure 5: More transparency in the construction sector

This sub-measure aims to develop a digital tool (Builder’s ID system) which shall enable mandatory registration of persons working in the construction sector and identification of such persons with a special builder's identity code. The national authorities shall carry out 1400 planned inspections and an additional 30% of non-routine inspections by 31 December 2025 in order to check if workers are registered in the Builder’s ID system and if they have special builder's identity codes. This measure shall help to better identify instances of illegal work.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

F.1.5. Reform 5 “Tools available to businesses to manage insolvency risk”

The aim of this reform is to help businesses strengthen self-control mechanisms when facing insolvency risks and to involve public authorities to advise such businesses. Implementation of this reform shall require creation of four digital tools supporting businesses which face insolvency risks:

1)the insolvency portal;

2)a digital tool (a wizard) helping to draw up a restructuring plan of a company;

3)a digital tool (a wizard) helping in the process of asset valuation to apply international valuation standards by providing best practices, examples and explanations in one place;

4)a tool to perform comparisons of asset and transaction valuation.

This reform shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

F.1.6. Reform 6. “Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster”

The aim of the reform is to modernise the data analysis and decision-making processes carried out by the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs by using advanced analytical methods and methods based on the use of artificial intelligence, and to enhance the competences of their staff. This reform consists of six sub-measures: (1) introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate (sub-measure 1); (2) improving data quality of the State Tax Inspectorate and of other institutions (sub-measure 2); (3) robotisation of business processes at the State Tax Inspectorate (sub-measure 3); (4) digitalisation of the tax stamps (sub-measure 4); (5) new data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems (sub-measure 5); (6) improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs sub-measure (sub-measure 6).

F.1.6.1. Sub-measure 1: Introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate

This sub-measure aims at introducing new tools which shall capture additional unstructured data and shall calculate risk profiles for taxpayers. Results of such analysis shall be made available to taxpayers so that they could adjust their behaviour regarding tax compliance.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

F.1.6.2. Sub-measure 2: Improving data quality of the State Tax Inspectorate and of other institutions

The aim of this sub-measure is to build an integrated metadata base of the State Tax Inspectorate and to deliver the relevant methodology (recommendations) for public financial institutions (the State Tax Inspectorate, the State Social Insurance Board, the Ministry of Finance and the Customs department). The data exchange with the metadata base shall be governed by the entry into force a legal act adopted by the State Tax Inspectorate. The data quality in the metadata base shall be ensured by imbedded data quality control algorithms and procedures.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

F.1.6.3. Sub-measure 3: Robotisation of business processes at the State Tax Inspectorate

The aim of this sub-measure is to acquire licences of the robotic process automation software and use them to automate two business processes of the State Tax Inspectorate:

1)issuing decisions and protocols for violations of administrative law;

2)revision of old tax arrears and fines.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 Mach 2022.

F.1.6.4. Sub-measure 4: Digitalisation of the tax stamps

The aim of this sub-measure is to explore the possibilities to replace paper tax stamps currently used to protect the market against illegal alcoholic beverages with digital solutions for the labelling of such products by running a pilot project. Based on the results of the pilot project, the State Tax Inspectorate shall decide whether to develop a dedicated module allowing electronic labelling of alcoholic beverages.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 Mach 2024.

F.1.6.5. Sub-measure 5: New data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems

The aim of this sub-measure is introduce new data analysis tools that also capture new data from additional data sources. This shall improve customs fiscal risk management in the following areas:

•customs declaration assessment;

•guarantee management;

•application and validation of tariff measures;

•identification of information sources to be used for customs valuation process.

In addition, the IT systems of the Lithuanian Customs shall be upgraded by establishing an interface:

•between the System for Presentation of Goods for Customs Control, Vehicle and Goods and Traffic Management systems;

•with IT systems of at least five partners managing the access of means of transport to places of presentation of goods to customs, approved by the customs authorities, and/or controlling the movement of vehicles or consignments (such as the State Tax Inspectorate, The Directorate of Border Crossing Infrastructure under the Ministry of Transport and Communication and AB Lietuvos geležinkeliai, Klaipėda State Seaport Authority).

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

F.1.6.6. Sub-measure 6: Improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs

The aim of this sub-measure is to develop a digital training tool which shall consist of training management and administration system and eight training modules for Customs officers and clients. In addition, it aims at creating a training tool for the staff of the State Tax Inspectorate in the areas of data analytics, taxpayer control, tax compliance assurance and improvement of competence of learning of foreign languages. These trainings shall be completed by 800 employees of the State Tax Inspectorate and 250 employees and clients of the Lithuanian Customs.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

F.1.7. Reform 7. “Development of an electronic document ecosystem”

The aim of the reform is to enable businesses to exchange electronic information and data with public authorities in an automated way. The reform shall focus on data of cash registers, purchase receipts and consignment notes. Amendments to the Law on Tax Administration and other legislation shall set mandatory requirements for the digitalisation of previously mentioned documents and their transfer to authorities. The amended legislation shall come into force by 31 December 2025. This reform also has two sub-measures: (1) creation of a solution to enable e-receipts (sub-measure 1); (2) creation of a solution to enable international e-consignments (sub-measure 2).

F.1.7.1. Sub-measure 1: Creation of a solution to enable e-receipts

The aim of this sub-measure to create an e-receipt prototype and deploy it in the IT systems of the State Tax Inspectorate. The State Tax Inspectorate shall also make it available for businesses.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2024.

F.1.7.2. Sub-measure 2: Creation of a solution to enable international e-consignments

The aim of this sub-measure is to adapt the Smart Tax Administration System, which is managed by the State Tax Inspectorate, to support electronic consignment documents and their exchange with other countries.

This sub-measure shall be completed by 30 September 2025.

F.1.8. Reform 8. “A single window to pay fines”

The aim of the reform is to improve the administration of fines. In order to implement this reform, a package of legal documents, including amendments to the Law on Tax Administration, shall have to be adopted to enable the State Tax Inspectorate to administer majority of fines and economic sanctions issued by the state. Implementation of the reform shall require adjustments to the information systems of the State Tax Inspectorate.

This reform shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

F.1.9. Reform 9. “Repository system for audit and controls”

The objective of the investment into a repository system for audit and controls is to assure that the RRP requirements with regard to data collection and monitoring are fulfilled by the time of the first payment request. In particular, this concerns collection of data and monitoring of the achievement of milestones and targets as well as collection, storing and ensuring access to the data as per Article 22(2)(d)(i) to (iii)  of the RRF Regulation. Respective functionalities of the repository system shall be confirmed by an audit report. The scope of the audit report shall cover the temporary arrangements and, to the extent already in place, the new single information system for the management of EU funds and the RRP for 2021-2027 funding period (IS2021).

The reform shall be completed by 30 June 2022.

F.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 138 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.1 Modernization of human resources management system in the public sector | Milestone | Modernisation of human resources management system in the public sector | Entry into operation of the modernized human resource management system |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Entry into operation of a modernized human resources management system, which shall include a newly created Public Sector Employees’ Registry and modernized IT solutions aimed to make human resources management processes more efficient, enabling centralized talent and career management. |
| 139 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.2 Establishment of a centralised training system for developing competences in the public sector | Milestone | Strategic guidelines and training module | Guidelines adopted and training modules developed |  |  |  | Q3 | 2024 | Strategic guidelines for the long-term training and competence development of public sector employees and implementation plan of the strategic guidelines shall be adopted by the Government of Lithuania.    Training modules for strengthening the competencies of public sector employees shall be developed by the Public Management Agency. The following training modules shall be developed: 1) digital competencies; 2) financial-analytical competencies; 3) leadership competencies. |
| 141 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.2 Establishment of a centralized training system for development competences in the public sector | Target | Number of trainings completed on digital, financial, analytical or leadership skills |  | Number | 0 | 16 000 | Q1 | 2026 | Digital skills training shall be completed by at least 4 000 public sector employees.    Financial-analytical skills training shall be completed by at least 4 000 of public sector employees.    Leadership skills training shall be completed by 8 000 public sector employees. |
| 142 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system. - F.1.2.1. The abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal | Milestone | Delivery of the proposals made on the basis of an in-depth analysis for the withdrawal of tax exemptions and special tax regimes to the Parliament | Registration of draft amendments to tax legislation in the system of legal acts |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Based on the publication of the cost-benefit analysis of existing tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are not effective and (or) no longer reflect state priorities, draft amendments to the relevant tax laws shall be drafted and submitted to the parliament. |
| 143 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.1. The abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to tax legislation abolishing tax exemptions and special tax regimes | Provisions indicating entry into force of amendments to tax legislation |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of amendments to laws abolishing tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are no longer effective and (or) no longer reflect state priorities. |
| 144 | F. 1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth | Milestone | Delivery of the proposals to expand environmental taxes and taxation of other sources less detrimental to economic growth on the basis of an in-depth analysis to the parliament | Registration of draft amendments to tax legislation in the system of legal acts |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Based on a study analysing options to expand environmental taxes and taxation of other sources less detrimental to economic growth, draft amendments to the relevant tax laws shall be prepared and submitted to the parliament. |
| 145 | F. 1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to the legislation on excise duties, environmental taxes and property taxes | Provisions in the amending laws indicating the entry into force of changes |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of amendments to laws on excise duties, environmental taxes and property tax to increase the role of taxes that do not hamper economic growth in the tax structure. |
| 146 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.3. An assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality | Milestone | Delivery of the study on the effectiveness of personal income taxation and social insurance contributions in reducing poverty and income inequality | The study published on the website of the Ministry of Finance |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Publication of a study analysing the effectiveness of personal income taxation and social insurance contributions in reducing poverty and income inequality. |
| 147 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.3. An assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to legislation on personal income taxation and social insurance contributions with a view to coming into effect not earlier than 2024 | Provisions in the laws indicating entry into force of changes to legislation on personal income taxation and social insurance contributions with the view to take into effect not earlier than 2024 |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Entry into force of amendments to laws on personal income taxation and social insurance contributions, based on the conclusions of the study analysing the effectiveness of personal income taxation and social insurance contributions in reducing poverty and income inequality, with a view to coming into effect not earlier than 2024. |
| 148 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry into force of the medium-term budgeting methodology, basic costs calculation methodology and amendments to the Law on Budget Structure related to the revision of the state budget. | Provisions indicating entry into force of two methodologies and the Law on the Budget structure |  |  |  | Q2 | 2024 | Entry into force of:  -the amendments to the Law on the Budget Structure which shall clarify the rules of revision of annual budgets;  - the methodology which shall set the procedures of medium-term budgeting, the main principles of which are set in the Law on the Budget Structure, and approved by a Government resolution;  -the methodology which shall set the procedures for baseline expenditure calculations approved by the order of the Minister of Finance. |
| 148a | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry into operation of the Strategic Management Information System’s tool automating medium-term budgeting | Entry into operation of the Strategic Management Information System’s tool automating medium-term budgeting. |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | The medium-term budgeting tool within the Strategic Management Information System shall be operational and available to budget appropriation managers in the central government institutions. It shall enable the automation of medium-term budgeting (including calculation of the operational expenditure). |
| 149 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry in force of the government resolution endorsing the first detailed medium-term budget project for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2027 | Government resolution endorsing the first detailed medium-term budget project for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2027 |  |  |  | Q3 | 2024 | The government shall endorse the first detailed three-year budget project for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2027. The medium-term budget shall be in accordance with the approved the medium-term budgeting methodology. |
| 150 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.2. Spending reviews | Milestone | Completion of the comprehensive budget expenditure review | Delivery of the comprehensive spending review results |  |  |  | Q1 | 2024 | A concept for a comprehensive spending review shall be approved by the government and implemented in the actual comprehensive review including the review of 2023 budget execution data.    The results of the comprehensive spending review shall be made public and shall feed into the preparation of the first medium-term budgets for the period from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2027. |
| 151 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.3. Enhancing the structure of municipal revenues | Milestone | Entry into force of amendment to the Law on the Methodology of Determination Municipal Budget Revenue and publication of findings of the systematic comparison of municipal fiscal indicators and the assessment of municipal capacity to raise revenues | Provision in the amending law indicating entry into force of the amendment to the to the Law on the Methodology of Determination Municipal Budget Revenue and publication of findings |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | Entry into force of the amendment to the Law on the Methodology of Determination of Municipal Budget Revenue which shall improve the structure of municipal revenue.    Tools shall be used by the Ministry of Finance which shall allow:  - a comparison of municipal revenue, expenditure and performance indicators;  - assessment of the capacity to increase municipal revenues.    The findings from these analyses shall be published. |
| 152 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.4. Promoting public-private partnerships | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships | Provision in the amended Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships indicating the entry into force of the amendments |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | The amended Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships shall:  - allow grouping of municipal investment projects, which would make them more attractive to investors;    - enable municipalities to participate in public-private partnership programmes organised by the state, which is expected to reduce administrative costs. |
| 153 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.4. Promoting public-private partnerships | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislative package establishing an enhanced framework for the use of strategic and long-term public-private partnerships | Provisions indicating the entry into force of amendments to:  1)the Law on Investment,  2)the Law on Concessions,  3)the Law on State and Municipal Assets and Their Management,  4)the Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships |  |  |  | Q4 | 2023 | The legislative package consisting of amendments to the Law on Investment, Law on Concessions, Law on State and Municipal Assets and Their Management, and the Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships shall be based on the results of a feasibility study regarding possibilities to implement public-private partnerships in the public domain and taking into account fiscal limitations.    The entry into force of the legislative package shall:  -enable the implementation of public-private partnerships in the strategically most important areas, such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, sustainable transport, and areas with the greatest investment needs, such as justice and public order and public safety;  -help to attract private investors to public projects by providing the long term sustainable investment plans and developing balanced mutually beneficial risk allocation mechanisms. |
| 154 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.5. Consolidation of the national development institutions | Milestone | Entry into force of the government resolution eliminating the status of national development institution for three institutions and leaving it for one institution | Government resolution eliminating the status of national development institutions for three institutions and leaving it for one institution |  |  |  | Q4 | 2023 | Entry into force of the government resolution eliminating the status of national development institutions for three institutions (State Investment Management Agency, Public Investment Development Agency and Agricultural Credit Guarantee Fund) and leaving it for one institution (INVEGA). The objective of the only remaining institution with status of national development institution shall be to concentrate knowledge and competencies in one strong national promotion institution, to unify and optimise national promotion institution operational practices and fund management, creating preconditions to attract institutional investors, strengthen public-private partnership, and sustainably increase the supply of financial instruments to finance financially viable projects. |
| 155 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.1. More transparency in the trade in used vehicles | Milestone | State Tax Inspectorate and Customs obtain data on vehicle owners from the vehicle owners’ accounting system | State Tax Inspectorate and Customs have access to data on vehicle owners from the vehicle owners’ accounting system |  |  |  | Q2 | 2021 | With the entry into force of the amendments to the Road Safety Act and its implementing legislation, a system of vehicle owners’ accounts has been introduced to identify the actual (re-sellers) and owners of vehicles and to ensure that their tax obligations are met. Access to data from the vehicle owners’ accounting system has been ensured. |
| 156 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.2. Fair taxation of online economic activities | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal requirement for online platform operators to collect and report to the tax authorities data on transactions carried out on online platforms | Provision in the law indicating the entry into force of legal obligation for platform operators to provide information to the State Tax Inspectorate |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | The new legal provisions in the Law on Tax Administration shall be adopted and enter into force. The online platform operations shall be obliged to collect and report data on transactions carried out on online platforms to the tax authorities by 31 January of the year following the calendar year to which the information relates. |
| 157 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.2. Fair taxation of online economic activities | Milestone | The State Tax Inspectorate receives detailed data on transactions executed on online platforms | State Tax Inspectorate receives detailed data on transactions executed on online platforms |  |  |  | Q1 | 2024 | The State Tax Inspectorate shall obtain detailed data on the transactions carried out by taxpayers on online platforms in 2023. |
| 158 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.3. Limiting the use of cash | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation limiting cash payments in risky economic sectors and/or individual types of transactions | Provision in the law indicating the entry into force of legislative provisions introducing restrictions on cash payments in risky economic sectors and/or for individual types of payments |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Based on the analysis of the Ministry of Finance, the legislation introducing restrictions on cash payments in risky economic sectors and/or for individual types of transactions shall enter into force. These amendments shall reduce opportunities for businesses and natural persons to conceal their income. |
| 159 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Target | Number of pupils from the first to twelfth grade who received an electronic pupil’s card with payment function. |  | Number | 12 900 | 90 000 | Q3 | 2024 | 90 000 pupils received an electronic pupil’s card with payment function. |
| 160 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Target | Number of schools (primary, secondary, progymnasiums, gymnasiums) with newly established or upgraded non-cash payment infrastructure |  | Number | 40 | 240 | Q3 | 2024 | Infrastructure established or updated for non-cash payments in the canteens of 240 schools. |
| 161 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Milestone | Delivery of educational tools and methodological materials for formal and/or non-formal education to develop of tax literacy for children and young people to the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport and delivery of information campaign to raise awareness about the tax system and services provided by the State Tax Inspectorate | Educational tools and methodological materials transferred to the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport for integration into formal and/or non-formal education.  Awareness campaign carried out. |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | 1. Methodological material on the tax system shall be produced and transferred to the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport for integration into formal and non-formal general education.    2. A campaign to raise awareness of the tax system and the importance of financial literacy, and projects to raise awareness about the taxes, the services provided by the State Tax Inspectorate, legislative changes and tax controls shall be developed and carried out through national news portals and regional media outlets. |
| 162 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.5. More transparency in the construction sector | Milestone | Entry into operation of digital tools to allow real-time registration of persons working in the construction sector and the identification of those who work illegally on construction sites | Digital tools are in place and operational |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Fully functional digital tool (Builder ID information subsystem) which enables mandatory registration of persons working in the construction sector and identification of specified persons according to a special builder's identity code. |
| 163 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.5. More transparency in the construction sector | Target | The proportion of electronically identifiable workers on construction sites as a proportion of the total number of workers |  | % (Percentage) | 0 | 80 | Q4 | 2025 | At least 80% of persons working on construction sites can be identified electronically in real time.    In the construction sector, 1 400 planned inspections and an additional 30 % of non-routine inspections shall be carried out by 31 December 2025. |
| 164 | F.1.5. Tools available to business to manage insolvency risk | Milestone | Entry into operation of four digital tools developed for and contributing to corporate insolvency risk management | Entry into operation of four digital tools available to users |  |  |  | Q4 | 2025 | Four digital tools shall be created and made available to users:  (1) the insolvency portal;  (2) a wizard to draw up the restructuring plan;  (3) a wizard helping in the process of valuation to apply international valuation standards by providing best practices, examples and explanations in one place;  (4) a tool to perform comparisons of asset and transaction valuation.    The preparatory steps for the creation of a tool to perform comparisons of asset and transaction valuation shall include adoption of amendments to the Law on Mandatory Property and Business Valuation (MPBV) providing for an adjusted regulatory framework of the valuer’s profession and digitalisation of valuation reports with the obligation to register reports in the state register.    The tools developed shall be accessible to all users, with the exception of some functionalities/part of information that relates to personal data in a specific case. |
| 165 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.1. Introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate | Milestone | Entry into operation of solutions to analytical challenges in the tax administration to reduce the VAT gap by using advanced analytics techniques and raising awareness among taxpayers | Delivery of the risk profile data and corresponding sanctions to taxpayers |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Entry into operation of the risk rating system which:  - publishes the risk profile data to taxpayers and applies preventive measures;  - detects discrepancies and issues sanctions to taxpayers. |
| 166 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.1. Introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate | Target | Risk criteria embedded in taxpayers’ risk profile |  | Number | 0 | 25 | Q2 | 2026 | A risk profile of taxpayers has been created, consisting of five risk dimensions (Registration, Declaration, Payment, Activity and Conduct) and at least five risk criteria have been realised in each of them. In total, 25 risk and behaviour criteria shall be fully implemented in taxpayers’ risk profile. |
| 167 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.2. Improving in data quality of the State Tax Inspectorate and of other institutions | Milestone | Entry into operation of the integrated metadata database of the State Tax Inspectorate and submission of methodology/recommendations to other state financial institutions | Entry into operation of a single integrated metadata database of the State Tax Inspectorate |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Entry into operation of an integrated metadata base of the State Tax Inspectorate and delivery of the methodology/recommendations for public financial institutions (the State Tax Inspectorate, the State Social Insurance Board, the Ministry of Finance and the Customs department). The data exchange with the metadata base shall be governed by the entry into force a legal act adopted by the State Tax Inspectorate. The data quality in the metadata base shall be ensured by imbedded data quality control algorithms and procedures. |
| 168 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.3. Robotisation of business processes at the State Tax Inspectorate | Milestone | Completion of automation of two business processes carried out by the State Tax Inspectorate | Entry into operation of the robotic process automation software |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | The acquired licences of the robotic process automation software shall be used to automate two business processes of the State Tax Inspectorate:  - Issuing decisions and protocols for violations of administrative law;  - Revision of old tax arrears and fines. |
| 169 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.4. Digitalisation of the tax stamps | Milestone | Completion of the pilot project on the replacement of physical tax stamps for alcoholic beverages with digital solutions | Delivery of the report on the results of the pilot project |  |  |  | Q1 | 2024 | Completion of the pilot project shall allow to:  1) assess the possibilities to replace paper tax stamps currently used to protect the market against illegal alcoholic beverages with digital solutions for the labelling of such products;  2) assess the possibilities to reduce the administrative burden and costs linked to the labelling of alcoholic beverages for economic operators.    Based on the results of the pilot project, the State Tax Inspectorate shall decide whether to develop a dedicated module allowing electronic labelling of alcoholic beverages. |
| 170 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.5. New data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems | Milestone | Entry into operation of five new data analytic methods for the processing of data from existing and five new data sources | Entry into operation of new data analytics techniques capturing also data from new sources |  |  |  | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into operation of five new data analytics methods also capturing information from five new data sources which shall improve customs fiscal risk management in the following areas:  -Customs declaration assessment;  -Guarantee management;  -Application and validation of tariff measures;  -Identification of information sources to be used for customs valuation process. |
| 171 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.5. New data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems | Target | Interfaces established with the information systems of external authorities managing data, vehicle and goods and traffic management systems |  | Number | 0 | 6 | Q4 | 2025 | Entry into operation of one interface between the System for Presentation of Goods for Customs Control, Vehicle and Goods and Traffic Management systems.    Entry into operation of interfaces between the Integrated Vehicle and Goods Control system, the system of Presentation of Goods for Customs Control and systems of at least five partners managing the access of means of transport to places of presentation of goods to customs, approved by the customs authorities, and/or controlling the movement of vehicles or consignments (such as the State Tax Inspectorate, The Directorate of Border Crossing Infrastructure under the Ministry of Transport and Communication and AB Lietuvos geležinkeliai, Klaipėda State Seaport Authority) or posts (Customs control places). |
| 172 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.6. Improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs | Milestone | Entry into operation of tools to effectively manage the competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and Customs staff as well as Customs clients needed for an efficient tax and customs administration | Entry into operation of tools for training purposes at the State Tax Inspectorate and Customs department |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Entry into operation of:  - a digital customs training tool which shall consist of training management and administration system and eight training modules for Customs officers and clients, including ones based on training in virtual reality;  - a training tool for the State Tax Inspectorate staff in the areas of data analytics, taxpayer control, tax compliance assurance and improvement of competence of learning foreign languages. |
| 173 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.6. Improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs | Target | Persons trained at the Lithuanian Customs and the State Tax Inspectorate |  | Number | 0 | 1050 | Q4 | 2025 | These trainings shall be completed by 800 employees of the State Tax Inspectorate and 250 employees and clients of the Lithuanian Customs. |
| 174 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem | Milestone | Entry into force of a set of legislative acts on the processing of electronic settlement documents and their fiscal data (cash register logs, e-receipts, international electronic consignment notes) | Provisions indicating entry into force in:  1. The Law on Tax Administration;  2. The Orders of the Head of the State Tax Inspectorate on (i) the Adoption of the Rules for the Use of Cash Registers and Point-to-point Computer Network Terminals and (ii) Technical Requirements for Cash Registers, Vending Machines and Taximeter Printers.  3. The Order of the Head of the State Tax Inspectorate on the Adoption of the Rules on the Submission of Data on Bills of Lading and Other Freight Transport Documents to the State Tax Inspectorate. |  |  |  | Q4 | 2025 | The amended Law on Tax Administration shall impose an obligation for businesses to provide digital data from means of payment to the tax administrator.    The amended (i) Rules for the Use of Cash Registers and Point-to-point Computer Network Terminals and (ii) Rules on Technical Requirements for Cash Registers, Vending Machines and Taximeter Printers shall set mandatory technical requirements for e-receipts.    The amended Rules on the Submission of Data on Bills of Lading and Other Freight Transport Documents to the State Tax Inspectorate shall impose an obligation to provide electronic freight transport information (eFTI) to the State Tax Inspectorate or other business supervisory authorities. |
| 175 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem - F.1.7.1. Sub-measure 1. Creation of a solution to enable e-receipts | Milestone | Entry into operation of technological solutions to enable the practical use of e-receipts in business processes | Entry into operation of the new e-service |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Entry into operation of the application (new e-service) developed to generate an e-receipt and deliver it from business to consumers. This application shall be made available by the State Tax Inspectorate to businesses. |
| 176 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem - F.1.7.2. Sub-measure 2. Creation of a solution to enable international e-consignments | Milestone | Entry into operation of technological solutions to enable the practical use of international e-consignments in business processes | Entry into operation of the new e-service |  |  |  | Q3 | 2025 | Entry into operation of the functionalities (new e-service) of the i.VAZ (electronic consignments subsystem) sub-system of the Smart Tax Administration System (i.MAS) managed by the State Tax Inspectorate for the exchange of electronic freight transport information (eFTI) between businesses and supervisory authorities. i.VAZ’s functionalities are necessary for i.VAZ to become the eFTI information access point, which shall act as an intermediary between eFTI platforms and business supervisors. |
| 177 | F.1.8. A single window to pay fines | Milestone | Adoption of amendments to legal acts allowing the State Tax Inspectorate to administer majority of fines and economic sanctions | Provisions in the amending laws indicating adoption of legislation transferring to the State Tax Inspectorate the administration of majority of fines and economic sanctions imposed by the State |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | The necessary legislation (Law on Tax Administration and other laws on fines and other economic sanctions imposed by the State) allowing the State Tax Inspectorate to administer majority of fines and economic sanctions shall be adopted. |
| 178 | F.1.8. A single window to pay fines | Target | Fines and economic sanctions imposed by 37 authorities are administered by a single tax authority – the State Tax Inspectorate |  | Number | 0 | 37 | Q2 | 2026 | Information system interoperability shall be established between the State Tax Inspectorate and institutions issuing fines and economic sanctions, enabling the exchange of data needed to record and recover previously mentioned amounts.    As a result, 37 institutions shall send electronic data on fines and economic sanctions to the State Tax Inspectorate. This functionality shall reduce the amount of manual work and paper documents. |
| 179 | F.1.9. Repository system for Audit and Controls | Milestone | Repository system for Audit and Controls: information for monitoring implementation of RRF | Audit report confirming repository system functionalities |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | A repository system for monitoring the implementation of the RRF shall be in place and operational.  The system shall include, as a minimum, the following functionalities:  (a) collection of data and monitoring of the achievement of milestones and targets;  (b) collect, store and ensure access to the data required by Article 22(2)(d)(i) to (iii) of the RRF Regulation. |

F.3. Description of the reforms and investments for loan support

F.3.1. Reform 1. “Improving centralized public procurement”

The aim of the reform is to make the public procurement system in Lithuania more efficient and increase participation in public procurement tenders by centralising public procurement via the Central Purchasing Organization (CPO LT).

The first action of the reform is to expand the catalogues of items that can be purchased via the Central Purchasing Organization (CPO LT) with an aim to streamline public purchasing procedures and reduce administrative costs for launching public procurement procedures.

The second action of the reform is to adopt a plan for centralization of public procurement of health institutions and agencies with an aim to increase professionalization of public purchasing, to promote standardisation of public procurement requirements, and to ensure economies of scale.

The measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

F.3.2. Investment 1. “Capitalisation and financial resilience of the National Promotional Institution”

This measure shall consist of a public investment to increase the capitalisation of INVEGA (National Promotional Institution) through an equity injection in order to improve access to finance in Lithuania. The investment shall provide INVEGA with additional equity of EUR 150 000 000.

INVEGA shall adopt a new investment policy, including covering the use of the additional equity in line with the RRF objectives and eligibility criteria. The investment policy shall include:

·The requirement, applicable to at least the share of INVEGA’s new investments that the new capital represents in INVEGA’s total capital, that investments of INVEGA are in line with the RRF Regulation objectives.

·The requirement, applicable to at least the share of INVEGA’s new investments that the new capital represents in INVEGA’s total capital, to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ (DNSH) principle as set out in the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) where, in particular, the investment policy shall:

oexclude the following list of activities: (i) activities related to fossil fuels, including downstream use
[19](#footnote20)
; (ii) activities under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks
[20](#footnote21)
; and (iii) activities related to waste landfills, incinerators
[21](#footnote22)
 and mechanical biological treatment plants
[22](#footnote23)
;

oin the case of general support to corporates, exclude companies with a substantial focus
[23](#footnote24)
 in the following sectors: (i) fossil fuel-based energy production and related activities
[24](#footnote25)
; (ii) energy-intensive and/or high CO2-emitting industries
[25](#footnote26)
; (iii) production, rental, or sale of polluting vehicles
[26](#footnote27)
; (iv) waste collection, waste treatment and disposal
[27](#footnote28)
, (v) processing of nuclear fuel, production of nuclear energy;

orequire compliance with the relevant EU and national environmental legislation of the supported investments.

·The requirement that INVEGA’s final investment decisions shall be taken by a Credit Committee, INVEGA’s Management Board or other relevant equivalent governing body and approved by a majority of votes from members who are independent from the government.

The implementation of the investment shall be completed by 31 August 2026.

F.4. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for the loan

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 180a | F.3.1. Improving centralized public procurement | Milestone | Adopting a plan for centralization of public purchasing of health institutions and agencies | A plan for centralization of public purchasing of health institutions and agencies prepared and adopted by the Minister of Health |  |  |  | Q2 | 2023 | A plan for centralisation of public purchasing of health institutions and agencies shall be prepared and adopted by the Minister of Health. The centralization of the public purchasing of health institutions and agencies shall include Purchasing Organizations under the Ministry of Health and Purchasing Organizations where the Ministry of Health jointly with the Municipality Councils, the Vilnius University, the Klaipėda University or the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences are majority shareholders. |
| 180b | F.3.1. Improving centralized public procurement | Target | Extension of the catalogue of the Central Purchasing Organisation (CPO LT) |  | Number | 83 | 105 | Q4 | 2025 | The electronic catalogue of the Central Purchasing Organisation (CPO LT), shall be extended by at least 22 new modules for the items that can be purchased via CPO LT, compared to the end of 2022. |
| 180c | F.3.2. Capitalisation and financial resilience of the National Promotional Institution | Target | Capital transfer from the Lithuanian Government to INVEGA |  | EUR | 0 | 150 000 000 | Q2 | 2024 | Lithuania shall transfer EUR 150 000 000 to INVEGA to increase its capitalisation. |
| 180d | F.3.2. Capitalisation and financial resilience of the National Promotional Institution | Milestone | Investment policy for INVEGA | Adoption of an investment policy |  |  |  | Q1 | 2025 | Adoption of a new investment policy for INVEGA, including covering the use of the additional equity in line with the provisions of the measure description. |

G. COMPONENT 7: More opportunities for everyone to actively build national well-being

The overall objective of the component is to contribute to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and address some of the long-standing challenges related to social exclusion, poverty and income inequality as well as to the low coverage of active labour market measures. Reforms and investments included in the component aim at increasing employment and ensuring the sustainable integration of people into the labour market as well as improving adequacy of the social safety net through targeted increases of certain benefits, improving the pension indexation mechanism, increasing coverage of unemployment social insurance as well as changes in the provision of accredited social care.

The component consists of two headline measures – the guaranteed minimum income protection and the customer-oriented employment support.

The component is expected to help achieve substantial progress in addressing the country specific recommendations on mitigating the impact of the crisis on employment, increasing the funding and coverage of active labour market policy measures and promoting skills (country specific recommendation 2, 2020). This also applies to the country specific recommendation to improve quality and efficiency at all education and training levels, including adult learning (country specific recommendation 2, 2019). The component shall also contribute to addressing the country specific recommendation to address income inequality, poverty and social exclusion, including by improving the design of the tax and benefit system (country specific recommendation 1, 2019) and to ensure the coverage and adequacy of the social safety net and improve the effectiveness of the tax and benefit system to protect against poverty (country specific recommendation 2, 2020).

G.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

G.1.1. Reform 1 “Guaranteed minimum income protection”

The reforms aims at improving the social welfare of the most vulnerable groups and alleviating poverty. It consists of 3 sub-measures: (1) study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation (Sub-measure 1), (2) additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits (Sub-measure 2); and (3) accreditation of social care (Sub-measure 3).

G.1.1.1. Sub-measure 1: Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation

The objective of the sub-measure is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the minimum income scheme including ex-ante impact assessment of the proposed reforms. The sub-measure shall result in relevant changes to the legislation according to the recommendations of the study, covering at least cash social assistance, sickness and maternity leave benefits.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2024.

G.1.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits

The objective of this sub-measure is to implement certain changes to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits independently of a study. They concern changes to the legislation increasing coverage of the unemployment insurance scheme, introducing additional benefit to single elderly and disabled people as well as improving the pension indexation mechanism to alleviate old-age poverty.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2023.

G.1.1.3. Sub-measure 3: Accreditation of social care

The objective of this sub-measure is to increase the quality of social care services. For this purpose an accreditation scheme shall be set up and as from 1 January 2022 only accredited social care shall be provided.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 March 2022.

G.1.2. Investment 2: “Customer-oriented employment support”

The objective of this measure is to improve the operational processes and support provided by the public employment service as well as incentivise entrepreneurship and re/upskilling towards high value-added areas through targeted subsidies. The investment encompasses two sub-measures: (1) optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation (Sub-measure 1); and (2) increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy (Sub-measure 2).

G.1.2.1. Sub-measure 1: Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation

The first sub-measure aims at improving the operational processes of employment service through digitalisation and increasing customer orientation. It consists of a revision of the working methods and automation of key processes of the employment service enabling structural/long-term changes to its administration and policies. This shall be achieved through the creation of a new multifunctional IT tool (employment platform) interoperable with a life-long learning system, a career guidance system and other country information systems which shall enable to provide at least 90% of the services digitally. The new tool is expected to free-up the necessary resources for more individualised services to job seekers and employers, to contribute to increased access to these services as well as to a better matching of the employers and employees with the potential to shorten the period of return to the labour market for the unemployed.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

G.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy

The objective of this sub-measure is to increase the scope and diversity of employment support measures with a focus on high value added jobs as well as the digital and green transformation. It includes two pilot schemes for training and employment support. The first one is dedicated to the entrepreneurship and shall support job creation in the areas of twin transition and circular economy, coupled with upskilling of public employment service employees in the areas of twin transition, circular economy and general business management. The second scheme aims at supporting employed and unemployed seeking to obtain qualifications and/or competences for high value-added jobs. A part of these education and training programmes shall be specifically focused on digital skills. The measure shall be implemented in synergy with measures planned under education component related to development of education and training programmes and creation of individual learning accounts. It shall provide more opportunities for employed people and shall also include higher education modules.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

G.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 180 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.1. Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation | Milestone | Finalisation of a study on adequacy of the minimum income scheme | Final report issued |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | The study shall include recommendations to reform the minimum income scheme as well as ex-ante impact assessment of the proposed reforms. |
| 181 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.1. Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to the relevant laws regulating minimum income protection | Provision in the legislation indicating the entry into force (Law on cash social assistance, Law on the Determination of Reference Indicators of Social Security Benefits and the Basic Amount of Penalties, and Law on Social Insurance for Sickness and Maternity) |  |  |  | Q1 | 2024 | Entry into force of the amendments to the relevant legislation according to the recommendations of the study on adequacy of the minimum income scheme (at least the Law on cash social assistance, the Law on the Determination of Reference Indicators of Social Security Benefits and the Basic Amount of Penalties, and the Law on Social Insurance for Sickness and Maternity). |
| 182 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation introducing an additional benefit for disabled and elderly single persons | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2021 | Entry into force of legislation ensuring that single (non-spouse) disabled and elderly persons shall be granted and paid an additional monthly benefit (single-person benefit). |
| 183 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendment to the Law on Unemployment Social Insurance increasing the coverage of the unemployment social security system | Provision in the amending Law on Unemployment Social Insurance indicating entry into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2023 | Entry into force of the amendment to the Law on Unemployment Social Insurance which shall:  - reduce the length of minimum required contributions to the social security insurance from the current 12 months in the last 30 months to nine months in the last 30 months;  - include the remaining groups of the self-employed in the unemployment social security scheme; and  - set adequate unemployment insurance contribution rates (after recalculation of the needs for unemployment benefits and income collections). |
| 184 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on changes to the pension indexation mechanism | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation which shall:  - review the pension indexation mechanism to provide for a faster increase in pensions in order to reduce the at-risk-of-poverty rate for the elderly. |
| 185 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection – G.1.1.3. Accreditation of social care | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on requirements for the provision of accredited social care | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q1 | 2022 | Entry into force of the legislation which shall:  - establish uniform requirements (for premises (if premises are required for the provision of the service) and qualification of the staff) for the provision of accredited social care (10 services);  - regulate that only accredited social care maybe provided from 1 January 2022. |
| 186 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.1. Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation regulating operational processes of the Employment Service | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of legislation which shall include changes to the operational processes of the Employment Service to enable its digital transformation. |
| 187 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.1. Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation | Target | Completion of the digital transformation of the Employment Service |  | % | 30 | 90 | Q4 | 2025 | 90% of the employment services are available through the Employment Service Platform, which shall be the main customer service system of the Employment Service with links to the lifelong learning system, career guidance system and other country information systems. |
| 188 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation governing the employment support scheme for the implementation of pilot measures  (Promoting entrepreneurship and support for learning that provides high value-added qualifications and competences, with a focus on digital and green transition) | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q2 | 2022 | Entry into force of legislation which shall specify:  - the time limit for the application of the new measures;  - the target groups;  - the selection criteria and requirements to comply with the objectives of the digital and green transition and the circular economy;  - the requirements with regard to sustainability of newly created jobs. |
| 189 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to promote entrepreneurship |  | Number of participants supported | 0 | 1325 | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of the pilot project to promote entrepreneurship allowing 1325 participants to be supported (of which 673 for jobs to support digital transition and 652 for jobs to support green transition and circular economy).    The target group of the entrepreneurship promotion measure is persons, who are changing their economic activity, are affected by the changes in the activities of the companies or the cessation of activities due to the crisis situation caused by the pandemic. |
| 190 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to support training for acquisition of qualifications and/or competences |  | Number of participants supported | 0 | 14 985 | Q2 | 2025 | Completion of the pilot project to support acquisition of qualifications and/or competences allowing 14 985 participants to be trained (of which 7 643 for programmes to acquire digital skills and 7 342 for programmes to acquire other high-value added qualifications and competences).    The pilot project shall encompass adult learning delivered through diverse means including vocational education and training programmes or modules, non-formal adult education programmes, and higher education modules.    The target group of the measure is job-seekers who seek to obtain high value-added qualifications and competences. |
| 191 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to support training for acquisition of qualifications and/or competences |  | Number of participants supported | 14 985 | 19 350 | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of the pilot project to support acquisition of qualifications and/or competences allowing 19 350 participants to be trained (of which 10 000 for programmes to acquire digital skills and 9 350 for programmes to acquire other high-value added qualifications and competences).    The pilot project shall encompass adult learning delivered through diverse means including vocational education and training programmes or modules, non-formal adult education programmes, and higher education modules.    The target group of the measure is job-seekers who seek to obtain high value-added qualifications and competences. |

G.3. Description of the reforms and investments for the loan

G.3.1. Reform: Improving the quality of social and employment services

The objective of the reform is to reduce the fragmentation of the planning and delivery of social, employment and other related services as well as to enhance the competences of social workers. The reform comprises two sub-measures: 1) improving the integration of employment, social and other services; 2) strengthening the competences of social workers.

G.3.1.1. Sub-measure 1: Improving the integration of employment, social and other services

The objective of this sub-measure is to provide integrated employment, social and other services for persons registered as unemployed and persons registered as persons getting ready for the labour market who are facing challenges to take up work. Legislation shall be amended stipulating that the Employment Service shall provide personalised services and consultations to unemployed persons and persons registered as persons getting ready for the labour market who are facing challenges to take up work. The legislation shall provide that municipalities, in cooperation with the Employment Service, shall implement employment-promoting programmes applying a case management approach for the aforementioned target group. At least 80% of the municipalities shall approve such programmes.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

G.3.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Strengthening the competences of social workers

The objective of this sub-measure is to strengthen the competences of social workers. The Center for the Improvement of Professional Competences of Social Services Employees shall be selected through the public calls for projects procedure and shall organise and conduct regular, free trainings, provide methodological assistance, and ensure support to social services employees in their professional activities.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 31 December 2022.

G.4. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for the loan

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 192 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - G.3.1.1. Increasing the integration of employment, social and other services | Milestone | Amendments to the legislation on personalised services provided by the Employment Service and municipalities for unemployed persons and persons registered as persons getting ready for the labour market who are facing challenges to take up work | Provisions indicating entry into force of amendments to the legislation |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Amended legislation shall enter into force stipulating that the Employment Service shall provide personalised services and consultations applying a case management approach to unemployed persons and persons registered as persons getting ready for the labour market who are facing challenges to take up work. The legislation shall provide that municipalities, in cooperation with the Employment Service, shall implement employment-promoting programmes applying a case management approach for the aforementioned target group. |
| 193 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - Increasing the integration of employment, social and other services | Target | Approval of employment-promoting programmes by municipalities |  | Percentage | 0 | 80 | Q4 | 2025 | At least 80% of the municipalities shall approve employment-promoting programmes. |
| 194 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - G.3.1.2. Strengthening the competences of social workers | Milestone | Establishment of a centre for improving the professional competences of employees in the field of social services | A centre for improving the professional competences of employees in the field of social services established |  |  |  | Q4 | 2022 | The Centre for the Improvement of Professional Competences of Social Services Employees shall be selected through the public calls for projects procedure. The Centre shall organise and conduct regular, free trainings, provide methodological assistance, and ensure support to new social services employees in their professional activities. |

H. COMPONENT 8: REPowerEU

This component of the Lithuanian Recovery and Resilience Plan contributes to addressing challenges linked to the green transition and in particular the need to lower GHG emissions, including from the transport sector, increase energy efficiency in buildings and transport, and to promote the development of additional electricity generation capacity from renewable sources.

The component envisages technical and financial support to speed up the renovations of multi-apartment buildings to improve their energy efficiency. As regards mobility, the measure entails support for the purchase and delivery of essential components for the zero-emission transport of heavy goods along the Lithuanian inland waterways, thus reducing the road transport of goods on the Lithuanian automotive highways. As regards the energy generation from renewable sources, legislative changes that go beyond the transposition of RED II are planned to simplify administrative requirements for the deployment of new renewable energy capacity, and a modelling study of the Lithuanian energy system aims to identify ways to achieve 100% of total national electricity consumption generated from RES. Additionally, financial solutions are planned for the development of generation capacity from RES. These measures shall have a multi-country dimension through the increased local RES generation and the reduction on reliance of fossil fuels.

The measures included in the component support addressing the country specific recommendation (2022 CSR 4) to reduce overall reliance on fossil fuels by accelerating the deployment of renewables, increasing energy efficiency and decarbonisation of industry, transport and buildings, and ensure sufficient capacity of energy interconnections. In addition, the measures included in the component support addressing the country specific recommendation (2023 CSR 4) to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels and imported energy by accelerating the deployment of renewables, in particular by ensuring sufficient grid capacity and access, ensuring the transformation and decarbonisation of industrial production, increasing the uptake of public and sustainable transport and making buildings more energy efficient, also to reduce energy poverty; to ensure sufficient capacity of electricity interconnections to increase security of supply, continuing the timely synchronisation with the EU electricity grid and to step up policy efforts aimed at the provision and acquisition of the skills needed for the green transition.

H.1. Description of the reforms and investments for non-repayable financial support

H.1.1. Investment 1: “Accelerating renovation of buildings”

The objective of the reform is to increase the pace of the building renovation process through two sub-measures: (1) update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards (Sub-measure 1); (2) support for renovation of buildings (Sub-measure 2).

H.1.1.1. Sub-measure 1: Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards

This sub-measure is the continuation of sub-measure B.1.3.1. (Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities). This sub-measure shall result in several pilot green renovation projects, to renovate at least 16 500 m2 of experimental buildings aiming to achieve on average at least a reduction of 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

H.1.1.2. Sub-measure 2: Support for renovation of buildings (scaled-up)

This measure is a scale-up of sub-measure B.1.3.4. (Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards). The objective of this measure is to provide support in the form of (i) compensation of on average at least 30% of the renovation works expenditure, (ii) compensation for the portion of the interest paid on the loan exceeding a rate of 3%, and (iii) 100% compensation of technical assistance expenditures for the building owners and administrators of renovation projects who have renovated buildings achieving energy efficiency class A or B. As a result of this support, at least 306 000 m2 of 180 multi-apartment buildings shall be renovated aiming to achieve on average at least a 30% reduction of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation, using green renovation principles or measures other than the use of modular structures to achieve energy efficiency class A or B.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

H.1.2. Investment 2 “Support for the purchase of clean inland water vehicle”

The objective of this measure is to reduce the use of road transport of goods by encouraging an alternative and cleaner transport of goods and other types of cargo over water. The measure shall provide support for the purchase of an electric vessel, a non-self-propelled barge and an electric crane. The vessel shall be equipped with an electric powertrain, which shall push a non-self-propelled barge. The electric crane shall be used to load cargo in the port of Kaunas Marvele.

The measure shall be completed by 31 December 2025.

H.1.3. Reform 1 “Increasing the generation capacity from RES”

The objective of this reform is to promote the production, transmission and consumption of electricity from renewable sources, improving institutional and legal mechanisms, and providing investment incentives for RES developers.

This reform is accompanied by two sub-measures: (1) Improving the investment environment for RES developers (Sub-measure 1); (2) Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) (Sub-measure 2).

H.1.3.1. Sub-measure 1: Improving the investment environment for RES developers

The objective of this sub-measure is to simplify the administrative requirements for the deployment of new renewable energy capacity. This reform consists of a package of legislative changes which contains elements going beyond the transposition of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). In particular, the reform package shall:

-Define and regulate hybrid power plants: The reform shall make it possible to connect hybrid RES plants (such as solar and wind) or energy storage facilities at one point of the electricity grid without following a permitting procedure simply based on an addition of the installed capacity. The connection of the hybrid power plant to the electricity grid shall be assessed on the basis of an allowed generation capacity instead of the installed capacity.

-Require a single development permit and a single manufacturing permit for hybrid power plants.

-Waive the development and generation allowances for prosumers for new RES power plants up to 100kW.

-Limit the duration of the permitting granting procedures to one year for new RES power plants: The granting of the three main permits for the development of RES plants (permit for the development of electricity generation capacity, building permit and permit for the production of electricity) shall not take more than one year for new RES power plants.

The sub-measure shall also include a modelling study on the Lithuanian energy system. The study shall develop proposals on necessary actions to further develop the Lithuanian renewable electricity generation capacity and include proposals to achieve an equivalent of 100% of total national electricity consumption generated from RES, with a focus on the technical and financial hurdles of reaching 100%. The study shall also assess the impact of RES on the reduction of GHG emissions, on air quality (including pollution from energy production) and on health.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

H.1.3.2. Sub-measure 2: Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power)

This sub-measure is the continuation of sub-measure B.1.1.2. (Support for the construction of individual storage facilities). The objective of this measure is to provide support for the RES production and to connect renewable energy communities. The measure shall include support provided to either legal entities, farmers, renewable energy communities or citizen energy communities for the acquisition and installation of onshore solar and wind power plants, prioritising self-consumption, farm or economic needs. The recipients of the support shall have the possibility to sell electricity back to the electricity grid. As a result of the investment, at least 225 MW of electricity generation capacity from RES shall be created.

The sub-measure shall be completed by 30 June 2026.

H.2. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for non-repayable financial support

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target | |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  | |
| 195 | H.1.1 Accelerating renovation of buildings -H.1.1.1. Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards | Target | Area of demonstration buildings renovated aiming to reduce on average at least of 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation |  | m2 | 0 | 16 500 | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of green renovation demonstration projects (6 buildings with a total area of 16 500 m2) as follows:    - 3 public buildings exemplified in several sites (such as school, kindergarten, administrative building) and  - 3 multi-apartment buildings.    The renovation shall reduce on average at least 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on the renovation of buildings, using new, industrialised heat-assembled insulation systems (panels) from organic raw materials, as well as building information modelling (BIM) technologies that combine all construction processes (design, construction, production, logistics, installation of prefabricated structures on site, maintenance and quality control), virtual modelling of life cycle of a building in relation to nearest surrounding environment (e.g. a quarter) in which the building is located. | |
| 196 | H.1.1 Accelerating renovation of buildings  H.1.1.2. Support for faster renovation of buildings (scaled-up) | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |  | m2 | 0 | 306 000 | Q2 | 2026 | Renovation completed of at least 306 000 m2 across 180 multi-apartment buildings reducing primary energy consumption on average by at least 30%, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation. | |
| 197 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of a non-self-propelled barge | Non-self-propelled barge purchased and delivered |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Purchase and delivery of a non-self-propelled barge | |
| 198 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of a 100% electric crane | Electric crane purchased and delivered to the port of Kaunas Marvele |  |  |  | Q4 | 2024 | Purchase and delivery of an electric crane to the port of Kaunas Marvele. | |
| 199 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of an electric vessel | Electric vessel purchased and delivered |  |  |  | Q4 | 2025 | Purchase and delivery of a zero-emission vessel equipped with an electric powertrain to push the non-self-propelled barge referred to in milestone 197. | |
| 200 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.1. Improving the investment environment for RES developers and preparation of Lithuanian energy system modelling study | Milestone | Modelling study for the Lithuanian energy system | Completion of the study by the relevant authorities |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Completion of the study, which includes an analysis of the Lithuanian energy sector. The study shall develop proposals on necessary actions to further develop the Lithuanian renewable electricity generation capacity and include proposals to achieve an equivalent of 100% of total national electricity consumption generated from RES, with a focus on the technical and financial hurdles of reaching 100%. The study shall also assess the impact of RES on the reduction of GHG emissions, on air quality (including pollution from energy production) and on health. | |
| 201 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.1. Improving the investment environment for RES developers and preparation of Lithuanian energy system modelling study | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation to improve the investment environment for RES developers | Legislation entered into force |  |  |  | Q3 | 2022 | Entry into force of legislation to simplify the administrative requirements for the development of renewable energy power plants, The amended legislation shall:    - Define and regulate hybrid power plants: The reform shall make it possible to connect hybrid RES plants (such as solar and wind) or energy storage facilities at one point of the electricity grid without following a permitting procedure simply based on an addition of the installed capacity. The connection of the hybrid power plant to the electricity grid shall be assessed on the basis of an allowed generation capacity instead of the installed capacity.  - Require a single development permit and a single manufacturing permit for hybrid power plants.  - Waive the development and generation allowances for prosumers and for new RES power plants up to 100kW.  - Limit the duration of the permitting granting procedures to one year for new RES power plants: The granting of the three main permits for the development of RES plants (permit for the development of electricity generation capacity, building permit and permit for the production of electricity) shall not take more than one year for new RES power plants. | |
| 202 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.2. Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) | Target | Creation of new electricity generation capacity from renewable sources (MW) |  | MW | 0 | 120 | Q1 | 2025 | 120 MW of either solar or wind generating capacity have been put into operation. |
| 203 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.2. Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) | Target | Creation of new electricity generation capacity from renewable sources (MW) |  | MW | 120 | 225 | Q2 | 2026 | At least 225 MW of either solar or wind generating capacity have been put into operation. |

H.3. Description of the reforms and investments for the loan

H.3.1. Investment 1: Support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore)

This measure shall consist of a public investment in the Energy Efficiency Fund (the Facility), in order to incentivise private investment and improve access to finance in the Lithuanian renewable energy sector. The Facility shall provide loans directly to the private sector, as well as to public sector entities engaged in similar activities. On the basis of the RRF investment, the Facility aims at initially providing at least EUR 549 130 737 of financing.

The Facility shall be managed by INVEGA as the Implementing Partner. The Facility shall include the following product line:

·Direct loans to private entities (including public entities competing in the same call) to finance their investments into renewable energy power plants (wind and solar).

In order to implement the investment into the Facility, Lithuania and INVEGA shall sign a Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) that shall include the following content:

1.Description of the decision-making process of the Facility: The final investment decision of the Facility shall be taken by an Credit Committee, INVEGA’s Management Board or other relevant equivalent governing body and approved by a majority of votes from members who are independent from the government.

2.Key requirements of the associated investment strategy, which shall include:

a.The description of the financial product and eligible final beneficiaries.

b.The requirement that all investments supported are financially viable.

c.The requirement to comply with the ‘Do no significant harm’ (DNSH) principle as set out in the DNSH Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).

d.The requirement that final beneficiaries of the Facility shall not receive support from other Union instruments to cover the same cost.

3.The amount covered by the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement), the fee structure for the Implementing Partner and the requirement to reinvest any reflows according to the investment strategy of the Facility unless they are used to service loan repayments of the Recovery and Resilience Facility.

4.Monitoring, audit, and control requirements, including:

a.The description of the main principles of the Implementing Partner’s monitoring system to report on the investment mobilized.

b.The description of the main principles of the Implementing Partner’s procedures that aim to ensure the prevention, detection and correction of fraud, corruption, and conflicts of interests in the Implementing Partner’s activities.

c.The obligation to verify the eligibility of every operation in accordance with the requirements laid out in the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) before committing to finance an operation.

d.The obligation of carrying out risk-based ex-post checks in accordance with an internal checks plan of INVEGA. These checks shall verify i) that the control systems in INVEGA are effective, including the detection of fraud, corruption, and conflict of interests; ii) compliance with the DNSH principle and the State Aid rules; and iii) that the requirement that final beneficiaries of the Facility have not received support from other Union instruments to cover the same cost is respected. The audits shall also verify the legality of the transactions and that the conditions of the applicable Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) are being respected.

5.Reporting requirements for climate investments for the Facility
[28](#footnote29)
.

The implementation of the measure shall be completed by 31 August 2026.

H.4. Milestones, targets, indicators, and timetable for monitoring and implementation for the loan

|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nr. | Related Measure (Reform or Investment) | Milestone/  Target | Title | Qualitative indicators     (for Milestones) | Quantitative indicators     (for targets) | | | Indicative timeline for completion | | Description and clear definition of each milestone and target |
|  |  |  |  |  | Unit | Baseline | Goal | Quarter | Year |  |
| 204 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) | Entry into force of the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) |  |  |  | Q4 | 2023 | Entry into force of the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement). |
| 205 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Publication of call for applications by National Promotional Institution | Publication of call |  |  |  | Q3 | 2024 | INVEGA shall launch a call for private entities (including public entities competing in the same call) to submit applications for loans in line with the requirements specified in the description of the measure. |
| 206 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |  | % | 0% | 20% | Q2 | 2025 | INVEGA shall have entered into legal financing agreements with final beneficiaries for an amount necessary to use at least 20% of the RRF investment into the Facility (taking into account management fees). |
| 207 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |  | % | 20% | 100% | Q2 | 2026 | INVEGA shall have entered into legal financing agreements with final beneficiaries for an amount necessary to use 100% of the RRF investment into the Facility (taking into account management fees). |
| 208 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Completion of the RRF investment transfers for the Facility | Certificate or other equivalent proof of transfer |  |  |  | Q2 | 2026 | Lithuania shall transfer EUR 549 130 737 to INVEGA for the Facility. |

2.Estimated total cost of the recovery and resilience plan

The estimated total cost of the recovery and resilience plan of Lithuania is EUR 3 849 237 823.

SECTION 2: FINANCIAL SUPPORT

1.Financial contribution

The instalments referred to in Article 2(2) shall be organised in the following manner:

1.1.First instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 21 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation to improve institutional and legal mechanisms to promote the production, transmission and consumption of electricity from renewable sources |
| 28 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Entry into force of a legislative framework establishing a procedure for determining energy efficiency and environmental protection requirements for the purchase of road transport vehicles and for cases in which they are mandatory |
| 29 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Sustainable Mobility Fund that shall finance the development of alternative fuels and vehicle infrastructure is established and operational |
| 37 | B. 1.2 Moving without polluting the environment - B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Milestone | Entry into operation of an information system for public and semi-public recharging points for electric vehicles |
| 43 | B. 1.2 Moving without polluting the environment - B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Milestone | Adoption of the action plan to integrate electric charging infrastructure network |
| 44 | B. 1.2 Moving without polluting the environment - B.1.2.4. Support to increase local production of RES fuels (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Milestone | Entry into operation of an IT system of renewable transport fuel accounting units |
| 70 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Entry into operation of a competence centre for open data and digital transformation |
| 83 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Milestone | Assigned radio frequencies for the deployment of 5G networks |
| 84 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the relevant laws enabling faster installation of the electronic communications infrastructure |
| 89 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.3. Innovation in mobility | Milestone | Designate a competent authority for the administration of transport innovation measures |
| 91 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.1: Improving the quality of education | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the methodology of the procedure for external evaluation of the quality of activities of educational institutions implementing school education programs |
| 93 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.2. Reorganisation of the school network | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the Rules on the Establishment of a network of schools conducting formal education programmes |
| 94 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.2. Reorganisation of the school network | Milestone | Plans for the transformation of the network of general education schools prepared and approved by municipalities in accordance with the newly approved rules for the development of the network of schools implementing formal education programs |
| 95 | D.1.1.Modern general education – Background to basic competences D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the Millennium School Progress Program |
| 105 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.7: Improving early childhood education and care | Milestone | Study on the feasibility of developing early childhood education infrastructure in municipalities |
| 110 | D.1.3. Vocational guidance system to balance supply and demand on the labour market | Milestone | Entry into force of the Government Resolution on the procedures regulating the Vocational Guidance (career guidance) system |
| 112 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training   D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on the establishment of the National Platform on Progress in Vocational Education and Training |
| 116 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training   D.1.4.3: Apprenticeship and work-based learning | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation establishing an apprenticeship and work-based learning support scheme |
| 126 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.4. Systematic R&D promotion in higher education institutions and research analysis | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal act establishing the science policy implementing agency |
| 127 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | The entry into force of the resolution of the Government creating the Innovation Agency and transferring innovation promotion functions from other agencies |
| 128 | E.1.2 Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised legislation on innovative activities |
| 132 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.1. Defining smart specialisation priorities | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised Smart specialisation concept |
| 142 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system. - F.1.2.1. The abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal | Milestone | Delivery of the proposals made on the basis of an in-depth analysis for the withdrawal of tax exemptions and special tax regimes to the parliament |
| 144 | F. 1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth | Milestone | Delivery of the proposals to expand environmental taxes and taxation of other sources less detrimental to economic growth on the basis of an in-depth analysis to the parliament |
| 146 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.3. An assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality | Milestone | Delivery of the study on the effectiveness of personal income taxation and social insurance contributions in reducing poverty and income inequality |
| 152 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.4. Promoting public-private partnerships | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendments to the Rules on the Preparation and Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships |
| 155 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.1. More transparency in the trade in used vehicles | Milestone | State Tax Inspectorate and Customs obtain data on vehicle owners from the vehicle owners’ accounting system |
| 168 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.3. Robotisation of business processes at the State Tax Inspectorate | Milestone | Completion of automation of two business processes carried out by the State Tax Inspectorate |
| 179 | F.1.9. Repository system for Audit and Controls | Milestone | Repository system for Audit and Controls: information for monitoring implementation of RRF |
| 182 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation introducing an additional benefit for disabled and elderly single persons |
| 185 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection – G.1.1.3. Accreditation of social care | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on requirements for the provision of accredited social care |
| 186 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.1. Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation regulating operational processes of the Employment Service |
| 188 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation governing the employment support scheme for the implementation of pilot measures   (Promoting entrepreneurship and support for learning that provides high value-added qualifications and competences, with a focus on digital and green transition) |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 649 543 707 |

1.2.Second instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 2 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.2. Development of digital health system facilitating the secondary use of health data | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation governing the secondary use of health data |
| 57 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Milestone | Legislation, regulating restoration of wetlands (peatlands) and their further protection and sustainable use, entered into force |
| 64 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on efficient data processing. |
| 80 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.4. Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation | Milestone | Publication of call for tender and approval of the financing terms for the development and deployment of innovative technological solutions in business |
| 92 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.1: Improving the quality of education | Milestone | Entry into force of the revised pre-primary, primary, lower secondary and secondary education programmes (curriculum) |
| 107 | D.1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Milestone | Entry into force of the Law on Adult Education establishing a coordinated lifelong learning system (LLL) model and setting out the principles for the functioning |
| 201 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.1. Improving the investment environment for RES developers and preparation of Lithuanian energy system modelling study | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation to improve the investment environment for RES developers |
| 1 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.1. Legislative framework regulating the organisation, management and provision of ambulance services | Milestone | Entry into force of the amended Law on Health Care Institutions and the Law on the Health System of the Republic of Lithuania and the related legislation |
| 3 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.3. Action Plan on Family Medicine Development 2016-2025 | Milestone | Adoption of the updated Action Plan on Family Medicine Development for 2016-2025 |
| 27 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.3 Installation of other electricity storage infrastructure | Target | Installed capacity of new electricity storage facilities (MW) |
| 50 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.2. Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance | Milestone | Competence Centre for Building Renovation is established and operational |
| 76 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Signed contracts with the owners of the digital and digitised cultural resources for the opening of the resources and made accessible to users |
| 99 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.4: Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation laying down requirements for the preparation and implementation of National qualification development programmesforpedagogical staff. |
| 115 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.2: Assessment of competences | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendment to the law on Vocational Training on Centres of Excellence in Vocational Education and Training |
| 129 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.1. Effective implementation of innovation policy through the creation of a single innovation promotion agency and the optimisation of the network of existing agencies | Milestone | Entry into force of the renewed framework of incentives for business to invest in R&D |
| 147 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.3. An assessment of the effectiveness of the tax and social insurance contributions in preventing poverty and reducing income inequality | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to legislation on personal income taxation and social insurance contributions with a view to coming into effect not earlier than 2024 |
| 158 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.3. Limiting the use of cash | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation limiting cash payments in risky economic sectors and/or individual types of transactions |
| 180 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.1. Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation | Milestone | Finalisation of a study on adequacy of the minimum income scheme |
| 184 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on changes to the pension indexation mechanism |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 221 820 028 |

1.3.Third instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 4 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.4. Establishment of a basic public health service delivery model | Milestone | Entry into force of a basic model of public health service delivery establishing equal conditions to receive necessary and high-quality services for target groups in society, especially vulnerable and socially excluded |
| 18 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.1. Action plan improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations | Milestone | Entry into force of an Action plan on improving cooperation between health care institutions and modernization of infrastructure for emergency situations |
| 58 | B.1.5 Towards a circular economy | Milestone | Entry into force of Action Plan for the transition to Circular Economy |
| 108 | D 1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Milestone | Entry into service of the one-stop-shop information system for lifelong learning |
| 121 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.1. Improving higher education funding and student admission systems | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal acts setting up a system of contracts with higher education institutions |
| 122 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.1. Improving higher education funding and student admission systems - E.1.1.2. Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges | Milestone | Entry into force of amended Law on Research and Studies, changing the system for funding and enrolment in higher education |
| 143 | F.1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.1. The abolition of tax exemptions and special tax regimes that are inefficient, no longer reflect state priorities or do not comply with the Green Deal | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to tax legislation abolishing tax exemptions and special tax regimes |
| 145 | F. 1.2. A fairer and more growth-friendly tax system - F.1.2.2. Sub-measure 2: Further broadening of the tax base to sources that do not hamper economic growth | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to the legislation on excise duties, environmental taxes and property taxes |
| 156 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.2. Fair taxation of online economic activities | Milestone | Entry into force of the legal requirement for online platform operators to collect and report to the tax authorities data on transactions carried out on online platforms |
| 183 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.2. Additional measures to increase adequacy and sustainability of social benefits | Milestone | Entry into force of the amendment to the Law on Unemployment Social Insurance increasing the coverage of the unemployment social security system |
| 5 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.5. Improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on improving working conditions and professional qualifications of health professionals |
| 69 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Publication of call for tender for innovative solutions and tools to ensure better communication opportunities for people with disabilities |
| 151 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.3. Enhancing the structure of municipal revenues | Milestone | Entry into force of amendment to the Law on the Methodology of Determination Municipal Budget Revenue and publication of findings of the systematic comparison of municipal fiscal indicators and the assessment of municipal capacity to raise revenues |
| 177 | F.1.8. A single window to pay fines | Milestone | Adoption of amendments to legal acts allowing the State Tax Inspectorate to administer majority of fines and economic sanctions |
| 6 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.6. Establishment of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of regional cooperation | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation on the establishment and regulation of a network of personal health care institutions based on the model of centres of excellence and regional cooperation |
| 48 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.1. Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards and creation of a methodology for the development of sustainable cities | Milestone | Entry into force of the following legislative acts:  a) the Plan of Implementation of the Long-term Building Renovation Strategy,  b) Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation “Design and Certification of the Energy Performance of Buildings”, approved by 2016-11-11 Order No. D1-754 of Minister of Environment  c) Guidelines for Sustainable Urban Development approved by Order of the Minister of Environment  d) Amendment of Construction Technical Regulation CTR 2.05.07:2005 “Design of Wooden Structures”, approved by 2005-02-10 Order No. D1-79 of Minister of Environment |
| 60a | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Adoption of Cybersecurity Development Programme. |
| 106 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences    D.1.1.7: Improving early childhood education and care | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislation on the criteria (guidelines) for pre-school education curriculum |
| 153 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.4. Promoting public-private partnerships | Milestone | Entry into force of the legislative package establishing an enhanced framework for the use of strategic and long-term public-private partnerships |
| 154 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.5. Consolidation of the national development institutions | Milestone | Entry into force of the government resolution eliminating the status of national development institution for three institutions and leaving it for one institution |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 452 534 313 |

1.4.Fourth instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure   (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 15 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.1. Adoption of the long-term care model | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation governing the implementation of the long-term care model |
| 67 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Entry into operation of data exchange tool |
| 68 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Milestone | Entry into force of amended regulation on the provision of information to persons with disabilities |
| 124 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.3. Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions | Target | Number of internationalisation projects completed by higher education institutions |
| 150 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.2. Spending reviews | Milestone | Completion of the comprehensive budget expenditure review |
| 157 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.2. Fair taxation of online economic activities | Milestone | The State Tax Inspectorate receives detailed data on transactions executed on online platforms |
| 169 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.4. Digitalisation of the tax stamps | Milestone | Completion of the pilot project on the replacement of physical tax stamps for alcoholic beverages with digital solutions |
| 181 | G.1.1. Guaranteed minimum income protection - G.1.1.1. Study on the minimum income scheme and related changes to the legislation | Milestone | Entry into force of amendments to the relevant laws regulating minimum income protection |
| 79 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.3. Production of digital education content and resources | Target | Entry into operation of digital learning facilities |
| 103 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of higher education teachers who completed the course to improve the digital competences |
| 104 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of teachers qualified as an IT teacher and acquired master’s degree in IT |
| 148 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry into force of the medium-term budgeting methodology, basic costs calculation methodology and amendments to the Law on Budget Structure related to the revision of the state budget. |
| 81 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.4. Financial instruments for business creation and digital innovation | Target | Entry into force of contracts for financial incentives for business creation and digital innovation |
| 139 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.2 Establishment of a centralised training system for developing competences in thepublic sector | Milestone | Strategic guidelines and training module |
| 149 | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry in force of the government resolution endorsing the first detailed medium-term budget project for the period between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2027 |
| 159 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Target | Number of pupils from the first to twelfth grade who received an electronic pupil’s card with payment function. |
| 160 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Target | Number of schools(primary, secondary, progymnasiums, gymnasiums) with newly established or upgraded non-cash payment infrastructure |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 199 638 025 |

1.5.Fifth instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure   (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 10 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.9. Establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform | Milestone | Establishment of a Health Professionals Competence Platform |
| 34 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Milestone | Entry into force of the inter-urban mobility system reform |
| 55 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Target | Rewetted peatland area |
| 65 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Entry into operation of data management model |
| 102 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.6: Digital Education Transformation | Target | Number of teachers who completed the course to improved digital competences |
| 111 | D.1.3. Vocational guidance system to balance supply and demand on the labour market | Target | Number of career specialists providing services in schools |
| 125 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.3. Strengthening the international competitiveness of higher education institutions | Target | Number of people who have benefited from support for the integration of foreign students |
| 148a | F.1.3. Long-term sustainability and transparency of the national budget - F.1.3.1. Improvements to the budgetary framework | Milestone | Entry into operation of the Strategic Management Information System’s tool automating medium-term budgeting |
| 162 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.5. More transparency in the construction sector | Milestone | Entry into operation of digital tools to allow real-time registration of persons working in the construction sector and the identification of those who work illegally on construction sites |
| 172 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.6. Improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs | Milestone | Entry into operation of tools to effectively manage the competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and Customs staff as well as Customs clients needed for an efficient tax and customs administration |
| 175 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem - F.1.7.1. Sub-measure 1. Creation of a solution to enable e-receipts | Milestone | Entry into operation of technological solutions to enable the practical use of e-receipts in business processes |
| 197 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of a non-self-propelled barge |
| 198 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of a 100% electric crane |
| 25 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.2 Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities | Target | Creation of new (individual) storage capacity for electricity from renewable sources (MWh) |
| 40 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of private recharging points |
| 62 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Target | The State Information Technology Services Department provides IT services to budget institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 on a consolidated basis |
| 71 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Entry into operation of solutions for digital public services to persons with disabilities |
| 135 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Projects and advisory services for potential applicants of Horizon Europe programme from higher education institutions and SMEs funded |
| 202 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.2. Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) | Target | Creation of new electricity generation capacity from renewable sources (MW) |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 199 638 025 |

  

1.6.Sixth instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure   (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 8 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.8. Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “Genome Europe” | Target | Number of sequencing tests performed for the whole human genome |
| 11 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.10. Development of healthcare quality assessment model | Target | Share of health care institutions included in the Lithuanian national health system display panel based on a set of performance indicators |
| 16 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.2. Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services | Target | Share of long-term care patients receiving out-patient long-term care services (%) |
| 22 | B. 1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country -B.1.1.1 Preparatory steps for the development of offshore wind infrastructure | Milestone | Performance and completion of the preparatory work for the development of offshore wind power plants and the installation of infrastructure |
| 31 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania |
| 35 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Target | Delivery of electric and hydrogen powered public transport vehicles (buses) |
| 38 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of publicly accessible recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight and buses |
| 53 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.4. Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |
| 96 | Modern general education – Background to basic competences    D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Target | Number of schools supported to improve the quality of activities |
| 190 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to support training for acquisition of qualifications and/or competences |
| 51 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.2. Tools to facilitate building renovation coordination and technical assistance | Target | Operationalisation and provision of service of three information systems for design of building renovation, for administration of renovation projects and Lithuanian Buildings Data Bank |
| 176 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem - F.1.7.2. Sub-measure 2. Creation of a solution to enable international e-consignments | Milestone | Entry into operation of technological solutions to enable the practical use of international e-consignments in business processes |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 89 349 768 |

1.7.Seventh instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure   (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 7 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.7. Creation of Centre for Advanced Therapies | Milestone | Establishment of an Advanced Therapy Centre |
| 12 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Target | Share of the country’s population provided with healthcare-related electronic services |
| 13 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Target | Share of outpatient and inpatient personal health care institutions using e-health products |
| 19 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.2. Modernisation of Centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases | Target | Number of modernised health care facilities which include centres of expertise in the cluster of infectious diseases |
| 20 | A.1.3. Systemic improvement of the resilience of the health system to work in emergencies    A.1.3.3. Modernisation of emergency departments and resuscitation units in regional hospitals | Target | Number of modernised health care facilities in hospital emergency, resuscitation and intensive care units |
| 30 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment | Milestone | Entry into force of legislation introducing an electronic road toll system based on the ‘user pays’ and ‘polluter pays’ principles |
| 45 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Installed total capacity of new biomethane gas generation facilities, MW |
| 52 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment – B.1.3.3. Promoting the supply of construction products and services that speed up the renovation of buildings | Target | Operational production capacity of modular structures from organic materials |
| 78 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Digital (electronic) resources made available for persons with disabilities |
| 82 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.5. ICT Centre of Excellence | Target | Entry into operation of centre of excellence |
| 85 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.1. 5G roadmap | Target | Entry into operation of 5G services in urban areas and other trunk roads and railway lines of national significance, airports and seaports |
| 123 | E.1.1. Quality higher education and strong higher education institutions - E.1.1.2. Improving the efficiency of the higher education network by refining the missions of universities and colleges | Target | Projects completed for the reorganisation of colleges (renewed missions) |
| 133 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.2. Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation | Target | Number of centres of excellence in operation |
| 163 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.5. More transparency in the construction sector | Target | The proportion of electronically identifiable workers on construction sites as a proportion of the total number of workers |
| 164 | F.1.5. Tools available to business to manage insolvency risk | Milestone | Entry into operation of four digital tools developed for and contributing to corporate insolvency risk management |
| 170 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.5. New data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems | Milestone | Entry into operation of five new data analytic methods for the processing of data from existing and five new data sources |
| 171 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.5. New data analysis tools and upgrading Customs’ IT systems | Target | Interfaces established with the information systems of external authorities managing data, vehicle and goods and traffic management systems |
| 173 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.6. Improvement of staff competences of the State Tax Inspectorate and the Lithuanian Customs | Target | Persons trained at the Lithuanian Customs and the State Tax Inspectorate |
| 174 | F.1.7. Development of an electronic document ecosystem | Milestone | Entry into force of a set of legislative acts on the processing of electronic settlement documents and their fiscal data (cash register logs, e-receipts, international electronic consignment notes) |
| 187 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.1. Optimization and improvement of employment service operational processes, ensuring systematic customer orientation | Target | Completion of the digital transformation of the Employment Service |
| 199 | H.1.2. Promote the purchase of zero-emission inland waterway transport vehicles | Milestone | Purchase and delivery of an electric vessel |
| 9 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.8. Creation a representative collection of reference genome data within the health project “Genome Europe” | Target | Number of sequencing tests performed for the whole human genome |
| 14 | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.9. Establishment of Health Professionals Competence Platform | Target | Share of healthcare professionals whose license is recorded and digitally monitored |
| 17 | A.1.2. Reform of long-term care services    A.1.2.2. Increase of human resources and infrastructure capacity for the provision of long-term care services | Target | Share of long-term care patients receiving out-patient long-term care services (%) |
| 41 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of private recharging points |
| 72 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Satisfactory use of public services by persons with disabilities |
| 130 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.2. Increasing demand for innovation in Lithuania by exploiting the potential of public procurement - E.1.2.4. Promoting the development of green innovation | Target | Number of innovative projects implemented |
| 131 | E.1.2. Effective implementation of innovation policy, increased demand for innovation, developed start-up ecosystem and green innovation development - E.1.2.3. Fostering the development of the start-up ecosystem | Target | Number of start-ups that received investment |
| 141 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.2 Establishment of a centralized training system for development competences in the public sector | Target | Number of trainings completed on digital, financial, analytical or leadership skills |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 172 317 410 |

1.8.Eighth instalment (non-repayable support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure   (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 13a | A.1.1. Improving the quality and accessibility of services and promoting innovation    A.1.1.11. Digitalisation of the healthcare sector | Milestone | Action plan for the Development of the Digital Health System |
| 26 | B.1.1 More sustainable electricity produced in the country - B.1.1.2 Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) and individual storage facilities | Target | Creation of new (individual) storage capacity for electricity from renewable sources (MWh) |
| 32 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of clean transport vehicles purchased and registered in Lithuania |
| 33 | B.1.2. Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.1. Support for the purchase of clean vehicles by the public sector and business | Target | Number of electric buses produced (assembled) and retrofitted in Lithuania |
| 36 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.2. Support for the purchase zero-emission public transport vehicles | Target | Delivery of electric and hydrogen powered public transport vehicles (buses) |
| 39 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of public and publicly accessible recharging points and very high-power charging stations for freight and buses |
| 42 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.3. Installation of vehicle charging/alternative fuel filling infrastructure | Target | Entry into operation of a service of public compressed biogas and hydrogen stations |
| 46 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Annual additional production of liquid second generation biofuels |
| 47 | B.1.2 Moving without polluting the environment – B.1.2.4. Support to develop RES fuels sector (biomethane gas, second generation liquid biofuels for transport, and green hydrogen) | Target | Total amount of “green hydrogen” produced |
| 54 | B.1.3 Accelerating renovation of buildings and a sustainable urban environment - B.1.3.4. Support for faster renovation of buildings in line with up-to-date building renovation standards | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |
| 56 | B.1.4 Increasing GHG absorption capacity | Target | Rewetted peatland area |
| 60b | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance - Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Establishment of a national cybersecurity monitoring system. |
| 60c | C.1.1a Transformation of public information technology governance – Development of state cybersecurity | Milestone | Strengthened capability for cybercrime investigation |
| 61 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Target | The State Information Technology Services Department provides IT services to budget institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 on a consolidated basis |
| 66 | C.1.2 Ensuring the effectiveness of data management and open data | Target | Integration of information resources into the data lake |
| 73 | C.1.3 Customer-oriented services | Target | Completed projects to digitise services and upgrade the level of maturity of the services provided |
| 74 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.1. Development of Lithuanian-language technological resources | Milestone | Delivery of Lithuanian language resources for the development of artificial intelligence and innovative technologies |
| 75 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.1. Development of Lithuanian-language technological resources | Target | Completed projects for the creation of Lithuanian language resources required for the development of AI solutions |
| 77 | C.1.4 Prerequisites for innovative technological solutions in business and daily life - C.1.4.2. Digitisation and accessibility of cultural resources | Target | Completed contracts for opening and making accessible to the users digital cultural resources |
| 88 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.2. Further development of very high capacity networks | Target | Connect with gigabit speed private and public companies, non-governmental and governmental organisations and municipal institutions (socio-economic drivers) |
| 90 | C.1.5 Step towards 5G - C.1.5.3. Innovation in mobility | Target | Entry into operation of digital solutions for mobility innovation |
| 97 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.3: Millennium School programme | Target | Number of schools supported to improve the quality of activities |
| 98 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.4: Strengthening the competences of pedagogical staff | Target | Number of pedagogical staff who have completed qualification development programmes |
| 100 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.5: Development of the STEAM ecosystem | Target | Number of upgraded STEAM centres |
| 101 | D.1.1. Modern general education – Background to basic competences  D.1.1.5: Development of the STEAM ecosystem | Target | Number of mobile laboratories |
| 109 | D.1.2. Access to the development of competences and the recognition of qualifications for adults | Target | 18-65 year old persons shall complete quality assured training, at least 40 percent of which dedicated to digital skills using a unified LLL framework |
| 113 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Target | New/updated vocational training programmes registered to make them available for training providers |
| 114 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.1 National Platform for the progress of Vocational Education and Training | Target | Trainers and/or masters involved in the training of apprentices and trainees |
| 117 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.3: Apprenticeship and work-based learning | Target | Apprenticeships completed |
| 118 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.4: Mobility programme | Target | Students who have participated in a national mobility scheme in Sectoral Practical Training Centres and have received a certificate of improved their practical and digital skills (at least 40% of participants shall improve their digital skills) |
| 119 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.5. More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils | Target | Pupils enrolled in lower and upper secondary general education schools completed initial VET modules |
| 120 | D.1.4. Competences for the green and digital transformation acquired in vocational education and training  D.1.4.5. More opportunities to acquire profession for school pupils | Target | Lower secondary pupils enrolled in experimental vocational training programmes received support |
| 134 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.2. Supporting the implementation of mission-based science and innovation programmes in smart specialisation | Target | R&D projects completed via three mission-based science and innovation programmes |
| 136 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Projects and advisory services for potential applicants of Horizon Europe programme from higher education and research institutions and SMEs funded |
| 137 | E.1.3. Joint missions for science and innovation in smart specialisation - E.1.3.3. Encouraging science and business to participate in the EU research and innovation programme Horizon Europe and other international funding programmes | Target | Positions of Scientific Officers and National contact points (NCPs) created |
| 138 | F.1.1. Efficient public sector - F.1.1.1 Modernization of human resources management system in the public sector | Milestone | Modernization of human resources management system in the public sector |
| 161 | F.1.4. Improving tax compliance - F.1.4.4. Financially literate future taxpayers | Milestone | Delivery of educational tools and methodological materials for formal and/or non-formal education to develop of tax literacy for children and young people to the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport and delivery of information campaign to raise awareness about the tax system and services provided by the State Tax Inspectorate |
| 165 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.1. Introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate | Milestone | Entry into operation of solutions to analytical challenges in the tax administration to reduce the VAT gap by using advanced analytics techniques and raising awareness among taxpayers |
| 166 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.1. Introduction of new data analytics tools in the State Tax Inspectorate | Target | Risk criteria embedded in taxpayers’ risk profile |
| 167 | F.1.6. Smart tax administration to reduce the VAT gap faster - F.1.6.2. Improving in data quality of the State Tax Inspectorate and of other institutions | Milestone | Entry into operation of the integrated metadata database of the State Tax Inspectorate and submission of methodology/recommendations to other state financial institutions |
| 178 | F.1.8. A single window to pay fines | Target | Fines and economic sanctions imposed by 37 authorities are administered by a single tax authority – the State Tax Inspectorate |
| 189 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to promote entrepreneurship |
| 191 | G.1.2. Customer-oriented employment support – G.1.2.2. Increasing the scope and diversity of employment support measures, contributing to the goals of digital and green transformation and promoting the circular economy | Target | Completion of the pilot project to support training for acquisition of qualifications and/or competences |
| 195 | H.1.1 Accelerating renovation of buildings -H.1.1.1. Update and testing in practice of building renovation packages and standards | Target | Area of demonstration buildings renovated aiming to reduce on average at least of 30% of primary energy consumption, as defined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2019/786 on building renovation |
| 196 | H.1.1 Accelerating renovation of buildings  H.1.1.2. Support for faster renovation of buildings (scaled-up) | Target | Area of renovated multi-apartment buildings |
| 200 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.1. Improving the investment environment for RES developers and preparation of Lithuanian energy system modelling study | Milestone | Modelling study for the Lithuanian energy system |
| 203 | H.1.3. Increasing the generation capacity from RES  H.1.3.2. Support for the construction of onshore RES plants (solar and wind power) | Target | Creation of new electricity generation capacity from renewable sources (MW) |
| 59 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Milestone | All systems run by the State budget institutions migrated to new hybrid government cloud infrastructure |
| 63 | C.1.1 Transformation of public information technology governance | Target | The State Information Technology Services Department provides IT services to all budget institutions determined in Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania No. 498 on a consolidated basis |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 312 724 188 |

2.Loan

The instalments referred to in Article 3(2) shall be organised in the following manner:

2.1.First Instalment (loan support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 192 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - G.3.1.1. Increasing the integration of employment, social and other services | Milestone | Amendments to the legislation on personalised services provided by the Employment Service and municipalities for unemployed persons and persons registered as persons getting ready for the labour market who are facing challenges to take up work |
| 194 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - G.3.1.2. Strengthening the competences of social workers | Milestone | Establishment of a centre for improving the professional competences of employees in the field of social services |
| 58a | B.3.1 Development of Green Financial Products | Milestone | Approval of the Green Finance Action Plan |
| 137a | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Guidelines for Defence and Security Industrial Development 2023-2027 |
| 180a | F.3.1. Improving centralized public procurement | Milestone | Adopting a plan for centralization of public purchasing of health institutions and agencies |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 387 918 090 |

2.2.Second Instalment (loan support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 58b | B.3.1 Development of Green Financial Products | Milestone | Establishment and entry into operation of the Green Finance Competence and Knowledge Centre |
| 204 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Entry into force of the Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) |
| 180c | F.3.2. Capitalisation and financial resilience of the National Promotional Institution | Target | Capital transfer from the Lithuanian Government to INVEGA |
| 205 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Publication of call for applications by National Promotional Institution |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 310 334 472 |

2.3.Third Instalment (loan support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 137b | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Funding Agreement (or an amendment to an existing Fund of Funds Agreement) |
| 137c | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Publication of call for applications by INVEGA |
| 180d | F.3.2. Capitalisation and financial resilience of the National Promotional Institution | Milestone | Investment policy for INVEGA |
| 206 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |
| 137d | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 387 918 090 |

2.4.Fourth Instalment (loan support):

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sequential Number | Related Measure    (Reform or Investment) | Milestone / Target | Name |
| 180b | F.3.1. Improving centralized public procurement | Target | Extension of the catalogue of the Central Purchasing Organisation (CPO LT) |
| 193 | G.3.1. Improving the quality of social and employment services - Increasing the integration of employment, social and other services | Target | Approval of employment-promoting programmes by municipalities |
| 137e | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |
| 137f | E.3.1. Loans to enterprises to develop green and high value-added technologies for industrial development | Milestone | Ministry has completed the investment |
| 207 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Target | Legal agreements signed with final beneficiaries |
| 208 | H.3.1. Investment support for RES plants (solar and wind onshore) | Milestone | Ministry has completed the investment |
|  |  | Instalment Amount | EUR 465 501 707 |

SECTION 3: ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

1. Arrangements for monitoring and implementation of the recovery and resilience plan

The monitoring and implementation of the recovery and resilience plan of the Lithuania shall take place in accordance with the following arrangements:

The implementation of the plan shall be coordinated by the Ministry of Finance which shall also perform the functions of a Managing Authority. The functions performed by Ministry of Finance as the Managing Authority shall be separated from its other functions, including those of the Audit Authority. The Audit Authority, comprising of two administrative units of the Ministry of Finance and independent from the other administrative units of the Ministry, carries out audits according to the adopted audit strategy. The sectoral ministries shall perform the responsibilities assigned to them, mostly related to practical implementation of the plan. The public body Central Project Management Agency (CPMA) shall be the Administering Authority responsible for project monitoring and control, including on the spot checks, as well as for the drawing up and submission of the payment request, submission of management declarations and summaries of audits.

The implementation and monitoring of the plan requires additional human resources. Around 16 full time equivalent jobs shall be allocated in the Managing Authority within the institution’s existing resources and around 100 new employees shall be hired in the CPMA to exercise plan-related functions.

2. Arrangements for providing full access by the Commission to the underlying data

In order to provide full access to the Commission to the underlying relevant data, Lithuania shall have in place the following arrangements:

The Ministry of Finance, as the central coordinating body for Lithuania’s recovery and resilience plan and its implementation, is responsible for overall coordination and monitoring of the plan. In particular, it acts as a coordinating body (together with CPMA), for monitoring progress on milestones and targets and, where appropriate, implementing control and audit activities. CPMA is providing reporting and requests for payments to the Commission. It coordinates the reporting of milestones and targets, relevant indicators, but also qualitative financial information and other data, such as on final recipients. The data encoding is taking place in a single information system dedicated to management of the recovery and resilience plan and other EU funds for 2021-2027 period (INVESTIS) which shall be set up and become operational by 30 September 2023. This system shall collect the necessary information to monitor the whole life cycle of the reforms and investments, including milestones, targets and results and other information related to implementation of the recovery and resilience plan (including the data required under Article 22(2)(d) of the Regulation (EU) 2021/241). During the transitional period (until INVESTIS becomes fully operational), the national information systems currently in place shall be used to compile the data referred to in Article 22(d) of the Regulation (EU) 2021/241
[29](#footnote30)
:

-The Monitoring Information System (SIS) containing data on investment projects financed by the State budget, i.e. title, timing of implementation, need for funds, sources of financing, target indicators, use of funds and other relevant information;

-Central Public Procurement Information System (CPI IS) which processes data relating to procurement procedures and contains the names of the contractor and the subcontractor;

-Information System for the Participants of Legal Entities (JADIS), which contains shareholder data of legal persons.

Once INVESTIS becomes operational, the data generated during the transitional period shall be transferred to INVESTIS. The commitment to monitor the fulfilment of the RRF requirements, including during the transition period when alternative IT systems shall be used, has been included in the plan (see public sector component).

In accordance with Article 24(2) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241, upon completion of the relevant agreed milestones and targets in Section 2.1 of this Annex, Lithuania shall submit to the Commission a duly justified request for payment of the financial contribution. Lithuania shall ensure that, upon request, the Commission has full access to the underlying relevant data that supports the due justification of the request for payment, both for the assessment of the request for payment in accordance with Article 24(3) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 and for audit and control purposes.

:   [(1)](#footnoteref2)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible should be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(2)](#footnoteref3)
     According to the Law on Financing of Road Maintenance and Development Programme of Republic of Lithuania.
:   [(3)](#footnoteref4)
     Except projects under this measure in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).
:   [(4)](#footnoteref5)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible should be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(5)](#footnoteref6)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(6)](#footnoteref7)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in existing mechanical biological treatment plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency or retrofitting to recycling operations of separated waste to compost bio-waste and anaerobic digestion of bio-waste, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(7)](#footnoteref8)
     Except projects under this measure in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).
:   [(8)](#footnoteref9)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible should be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(9)](#footnoteref10)

    This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(10)](#footnoteref11)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in existing mechanical biological treatment plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency or retrofitting to recycling operations of separated waste to compost bio-waste and anaerobic digestion of bio-waste, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(11)](#footnoteref12)
     Except projects under this measure in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01).
:   [(12)](#footnoteref13)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible should be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(13)](#footnoteref14)

    This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(14)](#footnoteref15)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in existing mechanical biological treatment plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency or retrofitting to recycling operations of separated waste to compost bio-waste and anaerobic digestion of bio-waste, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(15)](#footnoteref16)
     Except for (a) assets and activities in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) and (b) activities and assets under point (ii) for which the use of fossil fuels is temporary and technically unavoidable for the timely transition towards a fossil fuel free operation.
:   [(16)](#footnoteref17)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks, an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible shall be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(17)](#footnoteref18)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(18)](#footnoteref19)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in existing mechanical biological treatment plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency or retrofitting to recycling operations of separated waste to compost bio-waste and anaerobic digestion of bio-waste, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(19)](#footnoteref20)
     Except for (a) assets and activities in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) and (b) activities and assets under point (ii) for which the use of fossil fuels is temporary and technically unavoidable for the timely transition towards a fossil fuel free operation.
:   [(20)](#footnoteref21)
     Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks, an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible shall be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(21)](#footnoteref22)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(22)](#footnoteref23)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions under this measure in existing mechanical biological treatment plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency or retrofitting to recycling operations of separated waste to compost bio-waste and anaerobic digestion of bio-waste, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(23)](#footnoteref24)
     It is considered that a Final Beneficiary has a “substantial focus” on a sector or business activity if such sector or activity is identified as being an essential part of the business activity of the Final Beneficiary respectively in relation to the gross revenue, profit, or client base of the Final Beneficiary. The gross revenue generated from the restricted sector or activity shall, in any case, not exceed 50% of the gross revenue.
:   [(24)](#footnoteref25)
     Except for (a) assets and activities in power and/or heat generation, as well as related transmission and distribution infrastructure, using natural gas, that are compliant with the conditions set out in Annex III of the ‘Do no significant harm’ Technical Guidance (2021/C58/01) and (b) activities and assets under point (ii) for which the use of fossil fuels is temporary and technically unavoidable for the timely transition towards a fossil fuel free operation.
:   [(25)](#footnoteref26)
     Including activities and assets under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) achieving projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not lower than the relevant benchmarks. Where the activity supported achieves projected greenhouse gas emissions that are not significantly lower than the relevant benchmarks, an explanation of the reasons why this is not possible shall be provided. Benchmarks established for free allocation for activities falling within the scope of the Emissions Trading System, as set out in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
:   [(26)](#footnoteref27)

     Polluting vehicles are defined as non-zero-emission vehicles.
:   [(27)](#footnoteref28)
     This exclusion does not apply to actions in plants exclusively dedicated to treating non-recyclable hazardous waste, and to existing plants, where the actions under this measure are for the purpose of increasing energy efficiency, capturing exhaust gases for storage or use or recovering materials from incineration ashes, provided such actions under this measure do not result in an increase of the plants’ waste processing capacity or in an extension of the lifetime of the plants; for which evidence is provided at plant level.
:   [(28)](#footnoteref29)
     Final beneficiaries associated to specific projects shall be required to provide a justification of the selected intervention field for each project supported, together with a description of the project, for the purpose of the computation of the climate contribution. The implementing partner shall also be required to provide to the Member State a semi-annual report on the implementation of each project/activity.
:   [(29)](#footnoteref30)
     Specific data, required by Article 22(2)(d)(iii) of Regulation (EU) 2021/241 may be stored in other databases. (CVP IS, JADIS, CPMA Teams platform for monitoring milestones and targets, VBAMS, CPMA Document Management System).

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