An environmentally friendly Munich
The hundreds of square meters of shiny black solar panels seen on roofs throughout Munich contribute to the city’s image as being especially environmentally friendly. For years, the city has promoted solar energy, sponsoring programs for this alternative energy source. The effort has paid off: up to now, solar plants with a combined wattage of 2.4 MW have been installed, including a major 1-MW unit on top of the trade fair Messe München in Riem, medium-sized units at the post office on Arnulfstrasse and at the Pasinger Fabrik as well as on numerous private houses. Within the next five years, the city plans to double the output of Munich’s solar power units. This ambitious goal corresponds with a new national law, the Gesetz für Erneuerbare Energien (renewable energy law), which requires local energy providers to pay 99 Pf. for each kilowatt hour that is fed into the power system. It also provides for the coverage of all costs involved in acquiring and installing new photovoltaic units. Officials hope the new policies will make catching a few rays even more attractive.