Climate and Energy Model Region Lainsitztal - Stage 5

Klima- und Energiefonds

Bad Großpertholz, Großschönau, Moorbad Harbach, St. Martin, Unserfrau-Altweitra und Weitra

The climate and energy model region Lainsitztal is one of 100 climate and energy model regions (abbreviation: KEM) in Austria. Their goal is to save energy, take measures towards exiting  nuclear and fossil-fuel energy and use regional, sustainable resources to cover power demand. Region Lainsitztal is a cooperation of the municipalities Bad Großpertholz, Großschönau, Moorbad Harbach, St. Martin, Unserfrau-Altweitra und Weitra, who are working to increase energy efficiency and supply through renewable energies.

Measures included in the continuation phase:

The successful pilot “Raus aus dem Öl/Exit fossil fuel” is being continued, in order to replace as many existing oil heating units with  environmentally friendly pellets stoves and wood-fired ovens. The goal is an overall transition of all public buildings and units within the region, as well as all municipalities achieving the title “oil-free region”.

In the area of renewable energy sources, photovoltaics will remain the main focus. Here, the goal is and above-average increase in photovoltaics generating plants on public, private and business objects and areas within the region, especially by cultivating awareness, consultation and the continuation of the PV citizen participation model with HELIOS Sonnenstrom GmbH. Additionally, a pilot project of a regional, renewable energy community, consisting of all 6 municipalities mentioned earlier, will be accompanied in cooperation with the EZN. Power storages are intended to increase self-sufficiency ad blackout-safety.

Further factors include the incorporation of climate protection into the local areas of procurement, fleet, further education, construction and events within the municipalities; the acceleration of climate-friendly consumer habits via shorter transport and purchase routes and in turn an increase in regional added value and an improved modernization rate and/or the implementation of energy efficient and sustainable construction projects.

Within the area of mobility, mobility by foot and the usage of bicycles are being intensified. For instance, by making the net of biking trails within the region more attractive. Additionally, municipalities are aware of their role model effects and are thus establishing electric vehicles.

www.kem-lainsitztal.at