Kötschach-Mauthen from Austria – a pioneer of RES
At the end of the 19th century, the first small hydro power plant was built and supplied the local citizens with electricity. In the following 115 years, 21 small and medium hydro power plants, three ecologically dammed mountain lakes and a wind power plant were built. A biogas plant, various solar thermal systems, PV-installations and three biomass district heating systems followed. The local energy supplier Alpine Adria Energy (AAE) started to sell electricity generated by small hydro power plants to more than 17,000 private clients. By joining Climate Alliance Austria and the e5-network in 2008/2009, the LA complemented its commitment to RES.
RES self-sufficient Kötschach-Mauthen
The local association “RES self-sufficient Kötschach-Mauthen” was founded 2008 and comprises local politicians, energy experts, companies, citizens and one manager. Its aim is to improve and implement important RES projects and raise awareness for climate protection issues in the local authority and the region.
Some of the implemented projects:
- RES Learning Garden
- Energy experience (guided tours for viistors)
- hydro and solar model power plants for visitors (guided tours)
- change of heating systems
- energy accounting
- energy actions days
For further details please visit www.energieautark.at.
Energy Inventory
More than 90% of the total energy demand can be met by RES. This applies to the sectors electricity (almost 400%), heat and mobility, the latter being the biggest challenge for the future. In the energy road map 2020, Kötschach-Mauthen aims at being energy self-sufficient by 130%.
Awards (sample)
2010 European Energy Award Silver
2012 Climate Star from Climate Alliance International
2012 European Energy Award Gold
2012 “eeeee” (the highest level of national e5-certification)
