Promotion of Municipal Wastewater Disposal

Funding for Municipal Wastewater Disposal in Baden-Württemberg
The state of Baden-Württemberg annually supports water management investments and engineering services in public wastewater disposal with grants ranging from 20% to 80% of eligible costs, with applications due by October 1. Funding covers expenses for planning, construction supervision (flat rate), expert reports, concepts, as well as investments in wastewater facilities and measures to eliminate organic trace substances. The objective is sustainable water body management and water-related public services in accordance with the Water Resources Act (WHG) and the Baden-Württemberg Water Act. Eligible applicants include municipalities, municipal utilities, public-law special-purpose associations, and municipal companies with more than 50% municipal ownership. Project ideas must serve the public interest, be economically feasible, and—if required—aligned with an overall concept. The grant requires a complete application including a cost and financing plan, proof of economic efficiency, and proof of use.

Application Procedure and Evaluation Criteria
The responsible lower water authority reviews applications by October 1, supplemented by evidence of water/wastewater charges and a municipal economic assessment. Evaluation criteria include fulfillment of water management objectives, sustainability in water body management, and economic viability of the projects. Upon positive approval, disbursement is made proportionally according to construction progress; the final proof of use and success monitoring ensure the earmarking and efficiency of funds. Administrative costs, land acquisition costs, and expenses outside public wastewater disposal are not eligible for funding. The regulations set forth in the funding guidelines FrWw 2024 ensure a transparent, forward-looking funding practice for clean waters and a secure wastewater system in Baden-Württemberg.