Sankt Martin an der Raab: The path to energy self-sufficiency has been paved!
Sankt Martin an der Raab is aiming for energy self-sufficiency with new wood chip heating in order to reduce heating costs and reduce fossil fuels.
Sankt Martin an der Raab: The path to energy self-sufficiency has been paved!
The market town of Sankt Martin an der Raab has taken a bold step into the future to become energy self-sufficient in the long term. The wood chip heating system that was recently put into operation will not only supply the schools, the community office and several apartments, but also the church as soon as a new line is laid. Mayor Franz Josef Kern explains that this measure replaced two outdated oil heating systems, which led to a significant reduction in heating costs. “The wood chips are now sourced from our own forests,” says Deputy Mayor Siegfried Niederer, which significantly reduces the dependence on fossil fuels. According to the information from meinkreis.at Almost 68 percent of the costs come from state and federal subsidies, but a loan of 100,000 euros was taken out to bridge the time until payment is made.
Gigantic order for Siemens
In another headline, the Vienna-based European Locomotive Leasing (ELL) is causing a sensation with an order volume of up to one billion euros for the purchase of up to 200 new “Vectron” locomotives from Siemens. Former Chancellor Christian Kern, who took over management of ELL, sees this as a milestone on the way to market leadership. The locomotives, which will be delivered from 2025, are designed not only for passenger transport, but also for freight transport. The first 60 vehicles will be ordered immediately. Loud salzburg24.at With these new locomotives, ELL's fleet will increase to over 400, making it the largest Vectron fleet in Europe.
The collaboration with Siemens goes beyond simply purchasing locomotives; ELL will also receive support with maintenance and vehicle operations. Kern emphasizes that a focus on environmentally friendly solutions is not only in the company's interest, but also in the interests of sustainability. This future-oriented partnership will be crucial in getting closer to the goal of an emission-free railway.