Impetus, innovations and regional solutions
The event kicked off with an official welcome from high-calibre representatives from politics, science and business. "Replacing heating systems is a challenge for many people. I am therefore particularly pleased that everyone is pulling together: Municipalities, science and companies are creating interesting offers in the climate and energy model region of Eisenstadt and the surrounding area in order to get one step closer to the big goal - switching to a fossil-free heating supply," emphasised Anja Haider-Wallner, Deputy Governor of Burgenland, in her opening speech.
Marcus Keding, Managing Director of Forschung Burgenland, emphasised the importance of knowledge transfer: ‘Our aim is to make solutions tangible and build bridges between research, practice and the population.’
Bernd Windholz from the Austrian Institute of Technology took a practical look at modern heat pump systems in his keynote speech. Using case studies, he showed how heat pumps can efficiently heat and cool existing buildings and provided insights into AIT research projects: ‘Heat pumps are a key to decarbonising existing and new buildings, from single-family homes to heating networks and industry.’
"The heating transition is our key opportunity to permanently reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Now is the time to make sustainable heating attractive and affordable for all households with targeted investments and targeted funding," emphasised Nicole Kirchberger from the Climate and Energy Fund.
Marketplace of opportunities & workshops for all
In the afternoon, the marketplace of the heating transition opened its doors to the general public. Numerous companies presented innovative products and services here - including Binder Energieanlagen Ges.m.b.H., Thermolink, AMPV Montagen GmbH, Hillinger Haustechnik, Energieberatung Burgenland, Burgenland Energie, CARITAS, Raiffeisenbank Burgenland and the Chamber of Commerce.
Kinderfreunde Burgenland offered a colourful programme for children, turning the afternoon into an intergenerational experience.
Workshops offered practical insights - from financing models to tips for an affordable switch away from oil and gas. The festival was rounded off with an atmospheric exchange over regional wines from Donnerskirchen.
A moving day - both professionally and personally
The 1st Heat Transition Festival impressively demonstrated that the heat transition is more than just technology: it is a common path, supported by dialogue, regional strength and the will to change.
Further information:
Project management: DIin Marion Schönfeldinger, Forschung Burgenland
E-Mail: marion.schoenfeldinger(at)hochschule-burgenland.at, Phone: 057705 – 5462
Press contact: Petra SIMON, MAS, E-Mail: ps(at)petrasimon.at, Phone: +43 664 5175033
