Schärding is focusing on the future: New budget for education and energy!

Schärding is focusing on the future: New budget for education and energy!

At yesterday's local council meeting in Schärding, the estimate for the 2025 financial year was decided. This applies, among other things, to investments in the elementary school's digitization offensive, as well as comprehensive expansions of the kindergarten and toddler group facilities. Road repairs and the renovation of the Herzog Ludwig Bridge (Seilergraben Bridge) are also on the agenda. The expansion of photovoltaic systems and the promotion of renewable energies are also central elements of the budget. City Councilor for Finance Paul Königsberger emphasizes the securing of important services and the necessary restructuring measures made possible by these investments.

Another positive aspect of the budget is the financial security of the operation of the city pool. Schärding is currently in the third year of hardship compensation, which means relief for the city and its citizens. According to Mayor Günter Streicher, efforts to create good framework conditions are crucial and he is calling for additional support from the state and federal governments in order to successfully implement the necessary projects.

Support and funding for photovoltaic systems

Another important part of the estimate is the expansion of photovoltaic systems. In 2025, new rules for promoting photovoltaics will come into force, which are of considerable importance for the energy transition and climate protection. The remuneration rates for solar power fed in are falling, with smaller systems up to 10 kWp being remunerated at 7.96 cents per kWh (partial feed-in) and 12.60 cents per kWh (full feed-in). From 25 kW onwards, mandatory direct marketing is also necessary. These are some of the new requirements that will be introduced as part of the regional-photovoltaik.de be introduced.

Local funding programs in cities such as Freiburg, Berlin, Düsseldorf and Cologne also offer subsidies for battery storage as well as for tenants and apartment owners. The VAT on photovoltaic systems and storage remains at 0%, and systems up to 30 kWp continue to be exempt from income tax. New investment cost subsidies for private individuals and special programs from various federal states that offer high subsidies also provide financial incentive.

With its budget for 2025, the city of Schärding shows that it is actively committed to promoting renewable energies and improving the infrastructure. This is happening not only through the planned investments, but also through targeted support from the state. Thanks to the city administration and especially the finance department led by Martha Quirchtmaier, a collaboration is made possible that is of great benefit to the city. Schärding will therefore remain an important location for educational opportunities and sustainable development in the future.