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
These household solar plants have not waned in popularity in this European country
Almost a year ago, we reported on a trend that’s been gripping many German urban residents – the installation of solar panels on their balconies. During that relatively short period, the number of such households has more than doubled to pass the half-a-million milestone.
According to I Am Expat, the surge in popularity is likely thanks to Germany’s new Solar Package I policy, which was passed in August 2023 and came into effect in January 2024. The new regulation cleared several bureaucratic hurdles that made it cumbersome to install balcony solar panels.
In fact, the installation rate of balcony solar panel units seems to be accelerating given that in April 2024 the number of households clocked in at 400,000 – this was less than two months ago.
The above-mentioned Solar Package I makes it simple for anyone to get hooked and start producing their own solar-derived energy. And it’s not only open to owners – rent tenants can decide to do it as well. Naturally, the latter first needs to ask the former for permission before taking the step, however, the landlords have not been given too many options to deny such requests by the regulations.
Candidates can install the solar panels themselves, but they must first register their “balcony power plant” in a government database. A solar panel kit can cost between 300 and 1.000 euros depending on demand and has a lifespan of 25 years. According to figures from Verivox, solar panels save households an average of 228 euros per year.
Still, a balcony power plant might not be an optimal solution for everyone, especially in the less sunny parts of Germany. On the bright side, owners and tenants can apply for subsidies, such as the 500-euro Business SolarPLUS subsidy from Berlin’s Senate, which covers the cost of installation.
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
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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
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