07. 11. 2023
Author: Jan Blažek
CHYTRÉ LÍCHY: THE PATH TO EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY ENERGY
In the northern part of Židlochovice, a new residential area known as Chytré Líchy is under development. The shared vision among town representatives, a private investor, and JINAG is to establish a positive energy and carbon-neutral district in this location. The Chytré Líchy project stands out as a pioneering initiative, aspiring to become a benchmark for sustainable and intelligent construction, not only within the South Moravian Region but across the Czech Republic.
The "Chytré Líchy" initiative in Židlochovice emphasizes energy-efficient construction alongside the deployment of renewable sources for electricity generation. Its distinctiveness stems from a holistic approach to energy planning. What does that entail? It includes the ambition to not only achieve a positive energy balance and carbon neutrality but also to minimize energy consumption, mitigate CO2 emissions, optimize electricity generation from renewable resources, conserve water, and establish a car-free community.
In essence, our goal is to foster a community in Židlochovice that embraces the virtues of contemporary, healthful living, supported by an efficient and sustainable energy supply. Beyond the technical and financial considerations—which are typically paramount in residential development—our focus also extends to environmental and social facets.
One of the intriguing challenges of the project is the legal framework surrounding electricity sharing. This aspect is currently under regulation in the Czech Republic, and a legislative amendment is anticipated to facilitate this process. Another legal hurdle pertains to energy storage, which the existing laws do not adequately address.
The project's feasibility study, in which JINAG is participating, will inform the decision on the site's optimal configuration. We showcased the findings of this study on November 1st at the Community Centre in Židlochovice.
The Chytré Líchy initiative is unique due to its comprehensive approach to energy strategy, the incorporation of community energy concepts, and the navigation of legal challenges associated with energy distribution. Our feasibility study compiles crucial insights that will guide future decisions and the execution of the project.
The project involves collaboration with several partners, including EkoWATT CZ, PMAC, and Frank Bold Advocates. Financial support is provided by the Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU).