Promotion of Cold Local Heating Networks

The funding program supports the development of energy-efficient cold local heating networks in North Rhine-Westphalia and is aimed at companies of all sizes, as well as cooperatives and municipal entities. The goal is the decentralized supply of neighborhoods and settlements with heat and cooling via networks with transmission temperatures up to 20 °C on an annual average. Funding is provided, among other things, for planning costs for network concepts, the construction and expansion of the distribution network, material and installation costs for pipelines, as well as connection and transfer stations. The funding rate is up to 40% of eligible expenses, with a maximum of €200,000 per network. The funding aims to make a significant contribution to energy efficiency and climate protection while simultaneously creating incentives for the expansion of climate-friendly heat and cooling networks.

Applications can be submitted to the state office until June 30, 2027. A funding approval is decisive and must be obtained before services are commissioned or contracts awarded. A prerequisite is that the network serves third parties and is not constructed for self-supply purposes. Early commencement of measures is not permitted. Applicants complete an online form and submit the following documents: cost estimate or offer, entrepreneur declaration, declaration of “company in difficulty,” treasurer declaration, and the funding guideline progres.nrw – Climate Protection Technology. After a positive review, the approval is issued, after which the measure can be commissioned and, upon completion, the proof of use submitted. An overview of economic efficiency and tendering must be maintained to demonstrate the appropriate use of funds. With this funding measure, North Rhine-Westphalia strengthens the heat transition and promotes climate-efficient municipal and corporate projects.