Funding Program for Citizen Energy Communities in Onshore Wind Energy

This funding specifically targets locally active citizen energy communities across Germany that intend to implement projects for electricity generation from onshore wind energy installations. The program aims to support these communities in the preparatory phases of planning and approval. Specific company structures and geographical ties of the members are crucial for eligibility.

The program specifically subsidizes the costs for the planning and approval of onshore wind energy installations. This includes a wide range of preparatory measures, from feasibility studies to necessary expert opinions and legal consulting services, while investments in construction and operation as well as certain administrative costs are excluded. The support focuses on the early phases of project development.

The funding is granted as a subsidy and covers up to 70 percent of the eligible planning and approval costs, limited to a maximum amount. Under certain circumstances, this subsidy must be repaid, which underlines the specificity of the funding.

To receive funding, citizen energy communities must meet specific conditions regarding application submission, company structure, and the size of the planned wind energy installation. The repayment condition of the grant upon successful approval of the project is also important.

The application procedure is continuous and takes place electronically via the easy-Online system. Applications can be submitted continuously to the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) since July 1, 2024.

The funding is based on a specific guideline from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and integrates relevant provisions from the Renewable Energy Sources Act and the Federal Immission Control Act.