The Munich solar master plan: A groundbreaking step towards a sustainable energy transition with solar systems

The Munich City Council's Committee for Climate and Environmental Protection has reached a groundbreaking milestone by adopting the Master Plan for Solar Munich. This comprehensive plan presents the expansion of solar energy in the city center in all its facets as a central component of the energy transition. With a visionary perspective, the Master Plan pursues the long-term goal of covering approximately 25 percent of the city's electricity consumption with inner-city solar installations.

To achieve this ambitious goal, the city of Munich has set a transformation phase until 2030. During this period, the aim is to increase the annual installation of photovoltaic systems by 40 percent. This will result in the installation of approximately 100 megawatts peak (MWp) per year, significantly increasing solar energy generation in the city. This impressive increase in capacity will make it possible to significantly increase the contribution of solar energy to overall electricity generation while simultaneously reducing the need for conventional energy sources.

The Master Plan for Solar Munich goes beyond simply increasing solar energy production. It also takes into account the growing need for electricity and energy storage for mobility and heating. Promoting electromobility and integrating solar energy into the public transport network are also key priorities of the Master Plan. The city plans to expand charging stations for electric vehicles and use solar energy to power public transport, such as trams.

Another aspect of the master plan is the integration of solar energy into the city's heat supply. Using solar energy to heat buildings and provide hot water is a sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources. By increasing the use of solar thermal systems and harnessing solar energy in combination with innovative storage technologies, CO₂ emissions can be significantly reduced and dependence on fossil fuels decreased.

To ensure the long-term success of the Munich Solar Master Plan, it will be regularly reviewed, updated, and further developed. This iterative approach allows for the integration of new technologies and innovative solutions, as well as the adaptation of the plan to changing circumstances. The City of Munich is committed to close collaboration with experts, the public, and other stakeholders to guarantee broad acceptance and support for the expansion of solar energy.

The Master Plan for Solar Energy in Munich is not only a groundbreaking document for the city, but can also serve as a model for other cities and municipalities that want to advance their own energy transition. With a clear vision, an ambitious goal, and a comprehensive approach, the Master Plan lays the foundation for a sustainable and climate-friendly energy supply in Munich and beyond.

➡️ Building-integrated photovoltaics – aesthetics, ideal for new architectural design possibilities and reduction of urban heat islands

➡️ City solar carport modules for photovoltaic parking spaces with translucent solar modules

➡️ City Pergolas: The ideal concept for the green smart city of the future

➡️ Smart Columarium - up to 90% green spaces in city centers for well-being and a green city

The "Smart Columbarium" as an innovative solution for space saving and urban development

A novel and exciting solution is the "Smart Columbarium." This concept offers the possibility of saving up to 90% of cemetery space and using the freed-up green space for other purposes. This energy-efficient and space-optimized burial site was developed by logistics experts from Japan and Germany. The "Smart Columbarium" is an innovative form of burial where urns are stored in a space-saving and technologically advanced manner. This reduces the space required for traditional graves and frees up valuable green space. This space can then be used to make a valuable contribution to improving the living environment and quality of life for local residents.

The combination of protecting and promoting existing green spaces, thoughtful inner-city densification, and innovative concepts like the "Smart Columbarium" could help cities and municipalities find a balanced approach between urban development and environmental protection. By strategically investing in green infrastructure and exploring new land-use options, cities can preserve positive bioclimatic conditions in residential areas while simultaneously improving the climate in densely populated regions.

Learning from the Japanese: Already 91% of the population lives in urbanized areas

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• The Smart Columbarium concept as a partial solution for urban planning and urban development (Smart Urban / Smart City)

Smart Park: New green parks thanks to Smart Columbarium - Image: Xpert.Digital

The Smart Columbarium concept describes the possibility of reducing the space required for cemeteries by an impressive 90%. This innovative solution creates valuable space that can be used to create green leisure and recreation parks. This measure aims to increase the culture of well-being in the community and to provide residents with an attractive environment for their leisure activities.

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• Smart Park: New green parks thanks to Smart Columbarium
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The solar system planner for the most common applications: Plan the solar system online here - Image: Xpert.Digital

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• Solar system planner

Mayor Dieter Reiter: “With the Masterplan Solar Munich, we are one of the first German municipalities to take a holistic approach to the expansion of photovoltaics, thereby creating a reliable framework for administration, business, trade, building owners and Munich residents.”

Christine Kugler, Head of Climate and Environmental Protection: “The Master Plan for Solar Munich is a key part of Munich’s energy transition and helps us transform into a climate-neutral city. Munich offers sufficient land potential to achieve the ambitious photovoltaic expansion target of around 100 megawatts peak per year. The focus in the coming years will be on unlocking this potential.”.

Munich made impressive progress in the expansion of photovoltaics in 2023. With an added capacity of over 10 megawatts peak (MWp) of photovoltaics within the first six months, the city has already achieved more PV capacity than in the entire years of 2020 or 2021. This represents a significant milestone and demonstrates the enormous commitment of the city and its citizens to the expansion of renewable energies.

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic systems in Munich demonstrates that the city is well on its way to exceeding its targets in the Master Plan for Solar Munich. The original plan was to achieve an installation capacity of 15 MWp by 2023. Given the progress already made in the first half of the year, it is likely that this target will be significantly surpassed if the expansion continues at the same pace in the second half.

The positive development of photovoltaic installations is the result of a multitude of factors. The city of Munich has created an increase in demand for photovoltaic systems through targeted funding programs and incentives. In addition, the prices for solar modules have fallen considerably in recent years, making the installation of photovoltaic systems more attractive.

Another crucial factor is the available land in Munich. The city has sufficient land resources to achieve its ambitious goals for photovoltaic expansion. This means that there is enough space for the installation of PV systems both on building roofs and on open land. This potential is now being increasingly utilized to promote solar energy generation in the city.

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic capacity reflects the growing awareness among Munich's population of climate protection and the importance of renewable energies. More and more citizens are recognizing the advantages of photovoltaics and are willing to invest in their own PV systems. This commitment from Munich's residents is crucial for the success of photovoltaic expansion and the achievement of the city's energy policy goals.

The successful expansion of photovoltaics in Munich also has a positive impact on the regional economy. The increased installation of photovoltaic systems is creating new jobs in the renewable energy sector. Craft businesses and installation companies benefit from the rising demand for PV systems and contribute to the city's economic development.

The photovoltaic capacity added in Munich so far in 2023 shows that the city is on the right track to achieving, and potentially exceeding, its ambitious goals in the Master Plan for Solar Munich. The expansion of renewable energies, especially photovoltaics, is a crucial step towards a climate-neutral and sustainable energy supply. Munich is setting an important example and can serve as a model for other cities and municipalities that want to advance their own photovoltaic expansion plans.

Mayor Dieter Reiter: “Munich’s rooftops still hold enormous untapped potential for clean energy, which is why I am very pleased that the expansion of photovoltaics, especially in the private sector, has gained significant momentum in Munich. Our funding program is clearly having an effect. And we as a city are also leading by example, being the largest operator of PV systems in the city area with an installed capacity of around 7 MWp.”

Christine Kugler, Climate and Environmental Protection Officer: “The current PV expansion figures are impressive and almost entirely attributable to the commitment of private individuals. For example, well over 1,000 operators of small-scale systems have been enthusiastic about so-called balcony power plants. Applications for municipal solar subsidies have been submitted for a further 2,000 balcony solar systems and almost 3,000 larger PV systems. This shows us that our ‘Climate-Neutral Buildings’ funding program has struck a chord.”