Thessaloniki gets ready for its metro launch in November
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
The subsidy will help renters take part in the production of cheap and climate-friendly energy
Yesterday, local authorities in the German town of Jena launched their first-ever aid scheme for photovoltaics (PV) aimed at citizens. The city claims that, while lacking in resources, this aid can help individual households lower their energy bills through quick and easy-to-install ‘balcony PV systems’.
‘Balcony PV systems’ are easy to install, on your balcony, small photovoltaic cells, that are plugged directly into a socket. Because they do not need construction interventions, they are a perfect way for people who live in rental accommodation.
The system is capable of producing a maximum of 600 watts, however, it would still help to reduce electricity bills. Additionally, it will also let households test out the benefits of cheap and sustainable energy and take part in the sustainability transition.
Local authorities have allocated a budget of 100,000 euros for the funding programme. Additionally, they plan to fund 25% of the final cost of a balcony PV system per household, to a maximum of 200 euros. Additionally, they have also created a funding mechanism for vulnerable groups.
According to an official statement, anyone who is already receiving social benefits can apply for aid and the city will cover 75% or a maximum of 600 euros. While not too generous compared to similar initiatives in other municipalities, this subsidy scheme would allow the city to offer immediate assistance to households.
Moreover, because the systems do not need to go through a complex installation process, the aid can kick in immediately after it ends up in households’ budgets.
Mayor Thomas Nitzsche explained that the rising electricity prices are an issue for a lot of Jena residents. At the same time, self-generated solar energy is gaining popularity. And while homeowners can install PV systems on their property, this is much more difficult for people who rent.
This is where the balcony power plant can help, offering tenants the opportunity to generate climate-friendly and cheap energy.
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
That’s because the state has to spend money on updating the railway infrastructure rather than subsidizing the cost of the popular pass
Rethinking renewable energy sources for the urban landscape
The examples, compiled by Beyond Fossil Fuels, can inform and inspire communities and entrepreneurs that still feel trepidation at the prospect of energy transition
Now you can get your wine in Talence by paying directly in Bitcoin
The 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns (ESCT) sets the stage for stronger cooperation between the EU, national and local level to fast track Europe's transition to climate neutrality.
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
The underground rapid transit lines have been under construction for almost two decades due to various project delays
At least, that’s the promise made by the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo
Hostal de Pinós is located in the geographical centre of the autonomous region
Despite its church-y name, the district has long been known as the hangout spot for the artsy crowds
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
An interview with the Mayor of a Polish city that seeks to reinvent itself
An interview with the newly elected ICLEI President and Mayor of Malmö
A conversation with the Mayor of Lisbon about the spirit and dimensions of innovation present in the Portuguese capital