Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis to Build Photovoltaic System for Self-sufficiency

The Minister for Climate Protection in Rhineland-Palatinate, Katrin Eder, has awarded a grant of approximately 1.5 million euros to the Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis. The majority of this funding will go towards the construction of a photovoltaic system that will provide electricity to all 77 properties owned by the district. "I firmly believe that investing in the climate is investing in the future. By protecting the climate, we can save money and reduce CO2 emissions. Here in Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis, we can already see how climate protection projects improve the quality of life in local communities. Instead of spending money on high electricity bills, funds are now available for projects that benefit citizens," says Minister Eder.

The funds come from the Municipal Investment Program for Climate Protection and Innovation (KIPKI), which provides a fixed amount to all municipalities in Rhineland-Palatinate to reduce CO2 emissions and prepare for the challenges posed by climate change. KIPKI has a total budget of 250 million euros, with approximately 44 euros per resident to be allocated to the district and the municipalities. Each municipality can choose from a range of measures outlined in a catalog to suit their needs.

In addition to the 1.5 million euros granted to the district, further funds can be allocated to the municipalities that apply. This allows for the implementation of additional climate protection projects and measures at the local level to address the effects of climate change.

1.45 million euros for Photovoltaics in Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis

The Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis has opted for a municipal funding program for low-income households, using 60,000 euros of the KIPKI funds for this purpose. The majority of the funds, around 1.45 million euros, will be invested in self-generated electricity. To achieve this, the district will build a photovoltaic system on open land at the Rhein-Hunsrück Entsorgung (RHE) waste management company in Gondershausen. The electricity generated will be used to power all 77 properties owned by the district, connected through a balance of power system with a battery storage system.

"The use of self-generated electricity and the development of an initial balance of power system are significant gains for all of us, as they allow us to permanently reduce and stabilize the district's electricity costs. Specifically, we are using the KIPKI funds for an investment of 5.8 million euros at RHE," says District Administrator Volker Boch. "The principle is simple: we save electricity, reduce CO2 emissions, and save money for our region in the long term." It is also important to involve the community directly in the KIPKI funds. "That's why we support low-income households in replacing old refrigerators and other household appliances with more energy-efficient new ones, as well as in purchasing mini photovoltaic systems known as 'balcony systems.' This way, households have more money in their pockets by reducing energy costs, while also protecting the climate," adds Boch.