Municipal Guideline

The Municipal Guideline is a nationwide funding program of the National Climate Initiative (NKI) that supports municipalities, municipal enterprises, special-purpose associations, and public as well as non-profit institutions in the education, health, culture, and social sectors in implementing climate protection and energy efficiency measures. The goal is the sustainable reduction of greenhouse gases as well as the improvement of local quality of life. Funded are strategic activities such as the development of climate protection concepts, feasibility studies, and network building, as well as investment measures such as the energy-efficient renovation of lighting systems, the expansion of climate-friendly mobility, or the optimization of drinking water and wastewater facilities. The funding rate ranges between 40% and 90% depending on the project and municipal structure; support is increased for financially weak municipalities and lignite regions. Eligible expenses include personnel costs, material and investment costs, as well as consulting services. Early project start or costs incurred after the application submission are not permitted.

Applications can be submitted via the online portal easy-Online from February 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027; project start is possible from November 1, 2024. Required for the application are a detailed project description, the calculation form, the electronic application form, and, if applicable, a power of attorney for the TAN procedure. New applications are generally processed within five months, accompanied by individual consultation and fixed contact persons. The Municipal Guideline thus offers a structured and efficient way to unlock municipal climate protection potentials and strengthen local energy future viability.