Citizens' Assembly Debates: Key Matters Discussed in the 2025 Gathering

Aying's Public Assembly Discusses Energy Supply

Published 2 hours ago

In a public assembly held in Aying, the topic of energy supply was the focus of discussion. During the meeting attended by approximately 85 citizens in a well-filled hall, Peter Wagner (CSU), the mayor, provided updates on the municipality's energy-related initiatives.

One point of contention was the request for a local heating supply for the second-largest district of Großhelfendorf. In response, Wagner clarified that, despite the desire, a self-sufficient heating system for the area was not feasible without the participation of companies. He elaborated on the current situation by explaining that the wood chip boiler had malfunctioned, and a new heating system had been decided upon in February. However, this system can only supply municipal buildings, and connecting additional private homes is not an option due to capacity constraints.

The uncertain political situation and tight finances have had an impact on Aying, as Wagner acknowledged at the beginning of the report. He pointed out that the municipality had to delay funding decisions for some projects, such as the hiring of a new climate protection manager. Fortunately, a decision has now been reached, and the new climate protection manager will commence work on September 1st.

Expenses in Aying have been on the rise, with the district surcharge being the largest expense item at 5.2 million euros, an increase of 400,000 euros compared to the previous year. Wagner stated that he no longer expects the tax rate for the surcharge to decrease. To help offset these high costs, Aying will sell one or more plots of land in Dürrnhaar.

Additional high expenses for the municipality include the purchase of a new firefighting vehicle for 650,000 euros and the energetic renovation of the Aying kindergarten's roof for half a million euros. The kindergarten will undergo insulation, solar panel installation, and the addition of a heat pump. Wagner highlighted the positive state of the kindergarten, as every child requiring a place may now be provided with one—currently totaling 319.

Other projects making progress in Aying include flood protection, wind power, and the installation of E-charging stations. Investments in flood protection totaled 650,000 euros to prevent cellars in Ayinger from flooding. The wind turbine construction has also been completed, with all three turbines expected to be operational by early July. The E-charging stations have been well received in the municipality, with the next energy project slated to be the conversion of Ayinger street lighting.

Two major events are slated to take place in Aying this year: the 150th anniversary celebration of the Aying fire department, which will take place on June 1st, and the reopening of the St. Emmeram Church in Kleinhelfendorf. Interior renovations of the church have been underway for over two years, and the consecration service with Cardinal Marx will take place on September 7th. The overdue restoration cost four million euros, and the church will also be open to visitors outside of service hours.

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Relevant Enrichment Data:

Two legislative bills are currently being considered by the Munich city council to address energy efficiency and sustainable practices in public buildings. If passed, these bills would have an impact on the energy-related initiatives discussed in Aying.
The German federal government recently approved a nationwide aid program to upgrade heating systems in rural areas. Aying may be eligible for funds to help implement a local heating supply system, particularly if private companies can be found to participate.
In the ongoing discussion about energy supply, the role of science and environmental-science, specifically concerning climate-change and local heating solutions, was prominent in the public assembly held in Aying.
Despite financial constraints, the potential integration of sustainable practices, such as solar panels and heat pumps, in projects like the energetic renovation of the Aying kindergarten, indicates a significant focus on environmental-science and finance.