Wildpoldsried produces 321 percent more energy than it needs and is generating $5.7 million in annual revenue — a remarkable accomplishment for a modest farming community that has been able to invest in new municipal infrastructure without going into debt.
Wildpoldsried has received numerous national and international awards for its conservation and renewable energy initiatives known as Klimaschutz (climate protection). The council is hosting tours to teach other village councils how to start their own Klimaschutz program. Wildpoldsried expects its Eco-Energy Tourism to be introduced to the region by next year. Biogas, solar and windmill tours, environmental education, renewables education, sustainability, nature, business and regional tourist sites (such as the Neuschwanstein Castle) will all be part of this multiday experience. In turn, they also hope that new ideas, new technology and new businesses continue to develop within the community.
“After the Fukushima disaster, Mayor Zengerle has been busier than ever,” says Mögele. “He has gone to Romania, Berlin and the Black Sea Region to talk to European economic and energy groups. What people find so amazing about our story is that no project was a burden of the community. Every decision the Village Council made was based on the financial feasibility and profitability of the project. Our terms are for six years, and we don’t want the next council to have to budget for our debt. If a project could be financed in six years or less we felt it was worth doing.”
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