Zlín’s comprehensive approach to the energy transition

In 2023, the Energy Agency of the Zlín Region (EAZK) collaborated with 42 organisations, including the Regional Office, schools, cultural institutions, and social services providers, to replace an aging fleet of vehicles with electric cars (EVs). At the same time, a network of charging stations was set up, powered by newly installed photovoltaic systems on the rooftops of the participating institutions.

The project involved 42 organisations, such as the Regional Office of the Zlín Region, 32 schools, two cultural institutions, and seven social services organisations. In the first phase, 58 electric cars were purchased, and 57 charging stations were developed, covering the entire region. These EVs are set to replace petrol cars that are between 19 and 22 years old.

EAZK’s role primarily focused on coordinating the public procurement process and collaborating with the subsidy provider, the Czech National Programme Environment (NPE). The total value of this public procurement was 57.45 million CZK (around €2.4 million), with the grant amounting to 23.83 million CZK (roughly €1 million).

Simultaneously, EAZK is preparing to apply for funding to construct photovoltaic plants on the roofs of the organisations involved. These systems will not only power the buildings but will also supply the charging stations. The application is part of the 11th call of the OP Environment Programme (OPE), leveraging EAZK’s extensive experience in energy management within the Zlín Region over the past 16 years.

The comprehensive approach of this project has led to several positive outcomes. Its innovation lies in its ability to create an energy community through new photovoltaic installations, aligning with recent legislation on energy communities in the Czech Republic.

Through this project, citizens in the Zlín Region will benefit from improved facilities in social services, culture, and education. In addition to economic advantages, such as property upgrades for public organisations, the project also contributes to environmental improvements, including cleaner air in urban areas. This initiative serves as a model for other public and private organisations to follow.

Source: Energy Agency of the Zlín Region

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