Inspiring story in Slovakia

In central Slovakia the Bystricko Bioenergy project is bringing cheap, renewable heat energy to local buildings and strengthening community ties.

Beginning in 2005, a series of coal-fired municipal buildings have been converted to run on waste wood chippings from local sources. Now, 43 buildings across 8 villages are heated using a renewable, local resource that is locally-run and owned.

By making this switch, the municipalities are saving on their energy costs and helping to combat climate change. These savings – of 67% compared to coal-fired heat – mean that local authorities are also able to invest more in local development.