After finishing the study of regional energy strategy planning (RESP) in the ökoEnergieland region in May 2011 several measures are now going to be implemented as a result of the study. The initial situation within the (meanwhile) 16 communities regarding the utilization of renewable energy (especially based on biomass) has been very different. 2 Communities (Güssing and Strem) are already on a very successful way when it comes to energy self-sufficiency. In regular meetings the guidelines and objectives of RESP were presented by EEE to the stakeholders of the ökoEnergieland and then also to the public. Now the other communities are going to start with strategic measures.

The main objective of the RESP study is energy self-sufficiency in all communities of the ökoEnergieland.

This ambitious goal has to be reached by these measures:

• Local biogas grid
• Utilization of synthetic fuels (Bio SNG and 2^nd generation fuels)
• Fuel cells for private households
• LEDs for street lighting
• Photovoltaic plants
• CO₂ reduction with the help of algae in biogas plants

In respect of implementing the local biogas grid one biogas plant is already under construction (community of Tobaj) and 4 additional biogas plants are currently being planned (2 in the community of Güssing, 1 in the community of Güttenbach and 1 in the community of Deutsch Schützen), accompanied by information events for the resident people.

To provide the biogas plants (and all the other plants) with biomass from the region the foundation of a regional feedstock association is suggested in the RESP study. With the help of this feedstock association the collection, delivery and distribution of biomass, which is not being used until now is to be reached. The first storage yard in the scope of this feedstock association is already in operation (in the community of Strem).

In respect of LEDs for street lighting 2 communities (Tobaj and Inzenhof) are now adapting their systems and in the community of Strem a photovoltaic plant is being planned now on the roof of senior citizens residence building. Further measures in the scope of energy efficiency are to be followed.