Protest against Kraftwerk Kaunertal: Initiatives are calling for environmental friendliness

Protest against Kraftwerk Kaunertal: Initiatives are calling for environmental friendliness

in Innsbruck took place on Wednesday a protest against the expansion of the Kaunertal power plant. Representatives of Global 2000 and numerous other initiatives gathered at the Emile-Béthouart-Steg to loudly hear their concerns and to unroll it. The event carried the motto "All Zam! Against the dam!" And combined groups such as "Unique Platzertal", "Life -worthy Kaunertal", "Mountain Wilderness", "Protect Alpine Nature", "Protect Our Winters", "Our Water" and "Wildwasser Get Tyrol".

The demonstrators called for an immediate end for the planned expansion project in the Kaunertal and discussed possible alternatives. According to a statement by Global 2000, the opponents of the project fear that the expansion of the power plant acts like a black hole that continues to consume time and money without offering a solution. They appealed to Governor Anton Mattle to play a leading role and to develop a sustainable strategy for the energy transition in Tyrol.

difficulties in approval

TIWAG has tried to set up the project for years, but so far it has not even been able to completely submit the necessary documents for the environmental impact assessment (RRP). Viktoria Auer, energy spokeswoman for Global 2000, pointed out that media reports recently suggested that Tiwag had again asked for an extension of the deadline to submit these documents. This raises questions about the seriousness and progress of the project.

Last week, Governor Anton Mattle announced that the controversial water discharges from the Ötztal, which are intended for the Kaunertal project, are to be checked by external specialists. This is seen in the media as a step that could contribute to clarifying the disputed aspects of the project.

The repeatedly burgeoning conflicts about the energy expansion in the region and the legitimate concerns of the environmental and residents' initiatives are the focus of this discussion. The protesters hope to initiate a rethink with the state government and to promote alternative solutions for sustainable energy supply.

For more information on this topic, The report on tirol.orf comprehensive insights.