Grand Council TG Reduced Thurgau energy promotion program triggers criticism
In the canton of Thurgau, the benefits of various energy promotion measures have been reduced or canceled as of 1 July. This is a step in the wrong direction, according to the Grand Council on Wednesday. Initiatives have been announced on the subject.
03.07.2024, 13:43
SDA
The canton announced on the website of the Office of Energy that the cantonal energy promotion program would have to be cut due to declining contributions from the federal government. The reduced federal contribution would have to be offset with funds from the canton. However, this is not possible due to the current financial situation.
Funding rates would therefore be reduced or completely eliminated in various categories. This affects building modernizations, new Minergie buildings and heating network projects, as well as charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, energy analyses and feasibility studies.
The funding categories of heating replacement for heat in industrial processes, battery storage for solar power systems, thermal solar systems and comfort ventilation systems were completely abolished on July 1.
Initiatives announced
These adjustments sparked criticism in the Grand Council when discussing the government's annual report. It was said that this was going in the wrong direction. The massive reduction was completely unexpected.
Thurgau had previously played in the Champions League when it came to energy promotion, but was now relegated to the third division. Initiatives have been announced to correct this downward trend.
Government President Walter Schönholzer (FDP) reacted "to the indignation in the room". He explained that CHF 7 million would be put into the energy fund each year. In good times, further funds would be added. Now, however, there have been a few lean years. That is why the funding program had to be realigned.
