July 2, 2024
The AWS Solutions Hub in Asparn/Zaya has launched an innovative energy cooperative in the Weinviertel region together with Raiffeisen. Regional, sustainable electricity is available at fair prices for anyone who wants to join in.
On Friday, June 21, a significant milestone was reached as Monika Langthaler, Director of the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative and the AWS Solutions Hub, alongside Michael Höllerer, Managing Director of Raiffeisen NÖ-Wien, officially launched the new renewable energy cooperative (EEG) for the Mistelbach region in Asparn an der Zaya.
“From now on, everyone – every household, every SME and every organization – can use regional, sustainable electricity at fair prices,” explained Langthaler. “We want to offer simple and practical solutions,” emphasized Michael Höllerer, initiator of the cooperation between Raiffeisen NÖ-Wien and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s climate initiative.
Great interest in membership
Interest in becoming a member of “EEG Region Mistelbach eGen” was high right from the start. The strong reception of the energy cooperative in the region is evidenced by the approximately 60 pre-registrations for membership. There are only two requirements for participation: You have to be in the Mistelbach substation grid and you need a smart meter. Then you can simply register via the website www.auri.at. It is not necessary to change your energy supplier.
Monika Langthaler feels validated: “At the AWS Solutions Hub, we aim to demonstrate that the solutions for an energy transition truly work. ‘Less Talk- More Action’ is our credo at the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, and we can compellingly showcase this with the energy community here.”
Schwarzenegger impressed
Arnold Schwarzenegger was also impressed by the innovative project, which is helping to gradually make a region independent of fossil fuels. As the founder of the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, he had invited guests to his major climate conference, the AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT, in Vienna the day before, where he and Michael Höllerer celebrated a symbolic launch for the energy community on a large stage.
Renewable, regional electricity
At the core of the energy cooperative are approximately 300 photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of the centuries-old manor house in Asparn/Zaya, home to the AWS Solutions Hub. “When fully operational, they can generate enough electricity for 40 households,” explains Monika Langthaler. Additionally, the cooperative includes PV systems from regional Raiffeisen banks and other members.
Surplus electricity from the cooperative’s buildings is distributed directly to its members or can be stored in a storage facility and used for charging e-vehicles. Excess electricity is also fed into the electricity tariff of Auri, a brand of Raiffeisen Energy Ventures GmbH, a wholly owned subsidiary of Raiffeisen NÖ-Wien, at fair prices. Billing is handled efficiently and directly between members through the EEG platform.
Everyone benefits
“The more participants we can inspire with our EEG model, the more electricity will be shared in the local grid and the more the community will benefit,” says Raiffeisen NÖ-Wien CEO Michael Höllerer with conviction.
Members can participate with or without their own PV system and benefit from the exchange of renewable regional energy. “We offer a platform that makes it easy to participate in the EEG and consume electricity, feed it into the grid or do both,” says Langthaler, explaining the principle. Any profits are made available to members either through discounted tariffs or investments in PV systems, storage systems or e-charging stations.