Energy transition and civic engagement in a small community
08.11.2024
The municipality of Bundorf in Lower Franconia focuses on renewable energy and takes a holistic approach to the energy transition. With strong citizen participation and innovative concepts, the town shows how rural communities can benefit from sustainable energy.
Large solar park with citizen participation
In the fall, one of Germany's largest photovoltaic parks with 125 megawatts was connected to the grid in Bundorf. Around 250,000 solar modules generate energy here, which not only supplies electricity, but also district heating and charging stations for electric cars. Around 30 percent of the solar park is financed by the citizens' energy cooperative EGIS eG, allowing citizens to benefit directly from the project.
Focus on comprehensive nature conservation
Bundorf also integrates nature conservation into the energy transition. The solar park was designed to be landscape-friendly and provides habitats for plants and animals. Flower meadows and wildlife corridors between the modules promote biodiversity and improve the ecological balance.
Comprehensive district heating network
Parallel to the solar park, an electricity-led district heating network was created that supplies 20 households and public buildings. With air heat pumps, a buffer storage tank and a wood chip boiler, energy requirements are covered locally and in an environmentally friendly way, which lowers heating costs and reduces CO₂ emissions.
Sustainable mobility
By expanding the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles - also powered by electricity from the solar park - Bundorf is supporting climate-friendly mobility. The six charging points, including a fast charging station, offer a sustainable solution for residents and visitors.
Award-winning model project
Bundorf has received several awards for this cross-sector energy concept and shows how energy transition, climate protection and quality of life in the countryside can be ideally combined.
