Regional energy community: Dietmar Hipp shows the way to independence

Regional energy community: Dietmar Hipp shows the way to independence

Dietmar Hipp, a farmer from Zwettl, has established himself as a real pioneer in the field of renewable energies. Already 15 years ago he installed the first photovoltaic system (PV system) with an output of 10 kWp on his farm. The system grew continuously over the years: 20 kWp were added in 2017, and in 2019 a further 200 kWP were added, and last in 2022 he expanded his facility by 320 kWp. Hipp not only supplies himself with his company, but also a variety of mast turkeys. These require constant ventilation in your stable and mean a high electricity requirement.

On his 75 hectare property, Hipp not only cultivates turkeys that he delivers to large food chains such as Billa and Hofer, but also potatoes and grain. The electricity required annually amounts to around 90,000 kWh, which makes it an expert in questions of energy supply. Due to his extensive experience, it is often emphasized by the district farmers' chamber as a positive example of sustainable energy use. "I have been doing more and more than the average farmer, but I'm not the only one who is committed," he explains.

energy communities as a future model

hipp explains that the goal of this community is to create stable and transparent framework conditions: “Producer of electricity, whether from wind, water or photovoltaic systems, should have the opportunity to sell your electricity within the community without relying on low market prices.” This enables fair pricing for both sides, while the existing contracts with the previous electricity providers are retained.

regional advantages and less cost

An essential feature of the energy community is regional anchoring. Hipp compares the system with a farmer who sells its products directly to consumers: "This eliminates long transport routes and intermediate trading costs." The aim of relieving the networks in energy supply is also to relieve the networks and to create financial advantages for the users. Currently 2,500 kWp are already installed in Schweiggers, and Hipp pursues the goal that the electricity generated is also used directly on site. "We want to create the electricity where it is needed and not transport all over Europe," emphasizes Hipp.

Austria is considered a pioneer in the foundation of energy communities, over 1,500 have been set up in the past two years alone. "Electricity will be the topic of the future," Hipp provides an outlook on the upcoming challenges and opportunities.

The initiative of Dietmar Hipp reflects a clear trend towards regional and renewable energies. With innovative approaches and the creation of energy communities, energy supply could not only become more secure, but also more transparent and cost -efficient. For more information on this topic, The report on www.noen.at