Strengthening the Dynamics of Transformation and Renewal in the Mining Regions and at Coal Power Plant Sites (STARK)

The funding program STARK supports a wide range of projects nationwide in the coal regions to realize a sustainable structural transformation towards a greenhouse gas-neutral, resource-efficient, and future-proof economic structure. The program is aimed at companies, public institutions, private individuals, as well as educational institutions that wish to implement innovative measures in the areas of infrastructure, energy efficiency, renewable energies, smart cities, and digitalization. Funding is provided as a grant, with up to 90% of eligible expenses reimbursed—provided a proven own contribution of at least 10% in the form of monetary payments. This financial support is primarily intended to establish model regions where the transformation process in climate protection is advanced through targeted investments, knowledge and technology transfer, as well as consulting.

Within the funding categories, projects are supported that, for example, promote networking among stakeholders, knowledge transfer, or qualification and further education in structurally affected regions. In addition, investments in transformation technologies such as batteries, solar panels, heat pumps, or innovative production processes are specifically supported to facilitate the transition to a climate-neutral economy. The program emphasizes a holistic approach that highlights not only economic and ecological but also social aspects. Applications are submitted via the electronic portal easy-Online and can be made at any time, as long as the overall financing of the project is secured. With this initiative, the nationwide structural transformation in the coal regions is significantly advanced, making an important contribution to achieving the Federal Government’s climate protection goals.