The generation of energy from renewable sources, such as solar and wind energy, has become significantly more important, especially in recent years - also in Münsterland. Not only because of climate change, but also because of the finite nature of fossil resources, Münsterland is increasingly focusing on the expansion of renewable energies and is thus becoming a "climate state".
And the chances are good: in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Münsterland is the clear pioneer in the expansion of renewable energies. In 2021, 50.4 percent of the energy consumed was generated from renewable sources.
You too can use the sun! It serves as an energy source for heat generation (solar thermal) and electricity generation (photovoltaic). Private solar systems are playing an increasingly important role. Because they are not only good for the environment, they are also worthwhile for the operators.
Help and make Münsterland a climate land!
Whether south, east, west or even north, flat or pointed: your roof can also become a power plant. Nowadays, self-consumption is particularly worthwhile, which is why an east-west orientation is usually optimal. This way, more of your own electricity is available when you need it: in the morning and in the evening. The yield remains highest overall with a southern orientation, but so that the electricity can be used at home, it must be consumed or stored during the day. With modern, high-performance photovoltaic (PV) modules, some systems are even worthwhile on roofs with a northern orientation.
The electricity generated that cannot be consumed at home is fed into the grid of the local electricity supplier. In return, you receive a fixed minimum payment for 20 years, the so-called feed-in tariff, which was increased again in 2023 with the Renewable Energy Sources Act.
By installing a photovoltaic system, you not only make an important contribution to the energy transition in Münsterland, but also increase the value of your home. In addition, having your own PV system reduces the operating costs for an electric car or a heat pump. Before installing a heat pump, however, you should always have experts check whether your property is suitable for this type of heating system.
Even in a rented or owner-occupied flat, you can make the sun work for you - or get involved in the local energy transition. We show you a few possibilities:
Solar power from the roof directly into the socket. Tenants can become electricity customers of their landlord if he invests in photovoltaics. With full security of supply! In contrast to purchasing electricity from the grid, some cost components such as grid charges, grid-side levies, electricity tax and concession fees do not apply. Condominium owners' associations can also invest. Unfortunately, however, there are still some regulatory hurdles to this model (more on this in the federal government's PV strategy starting on page 18). As a rule, it is easier to implement the more units the apartment building has. Further information on PV on multi-family dwellings can be found in this guide by the Energy Agency Regio Freiburg.
Plug-in PV systems also offer consumers without suitable roof space the opportunity to use solar energy. The electricity is generated on your balcony or on the wall of your house and supplies your refrigerator, for example, directly with electricity. This reduces the amount of electricity that has to be drawn from the grid. Further information is available on the website of the consumer advice centre.
Anyone can join one! Membership in a citizens' energy cooperative is a good way to make a sustainable investment in local wind and solar projects. The regional roots and the associated added value are major plus points. There are several citizens' energy cooperatives in Münsterland:
Münsterland is a pioneer when it comes to renewable energies: according to the NRW Energy Atlas, no other region has such a high number of PV and wind energy plants as Münsterland. In 2019, 44 percent of the energy consumed was generated from renewable energies.
This was made possible by
According to the federal government's targets, renewable energies should have a share of 65 per cent of electricity consumption in 2030.