Energy

When it comes to energy, Kaunas has decided to invest in projects that promote sustainability. Firstly, the city wants to reduce pollution drastically, almost completely; secondly, it wants to use renewable sources and ensure stable energy production for its citizens. Kaunas is positioning itself as a green laboratory, embracing ideas ranging from waste-to-energy to clean electricity production, in a global context where fossil fuels are contributing to the climate crisis. Energy plays a crucial role in the city’s ecological transition: from heating buildings to powering daily necessities, the adoption of innovative technologies can make every aspect of the citizens’ lives more sustainable.

The cogeneration plant in Kaunas

Kauno Kogeneracinė Jėgainė, the cogeneration plant in Kaunas, is one of the most significant initiatives. The facility, now in commercial operation, is the first of its kind in Lithuania to use non-hazardous municipal solid waste for the simultaneous production of heat and electricity. In addition to providing district heating and clean electricity, this approach reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. Constructing a waste-to-energy plant at the cost of 160 million euros is a proof of the Lithuanian city’s commitment to invest in sustainable energy.

Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant

Another example of Kaunas’ commitment to sustainable energy production is the Kaunas Hydroelectric Power Plant. The plant is probably the largest renewable hydropower plant in the country. Thanks to its location near the Nemunas River, the KHPP is able to ensure the effective production of sustainable energy, making the best use of the natural resource at its disposal and avoiding the use of fossil fuels.

Solar power of Kaunas

In addition to thermal and hydroelectric solutions, Kaunas is also relying on solar energy. The city is indeed beneficiary of a grant of 4 million euros for the installation of photovoltaic panels on various public facilities, such as hospitals and schools. Installing solar panels on schools and hospitals is a powerful message, engaging the community in educational programmes promoting a cultural change towards renewable energy.

Kaunas’ experience with renewable energy proves how political determination, financial support and community commitment can create a virtuous circle of sustainability. Indeed, in addition to ensuring more renewable energy sources, Kaunas is taking proactive measures to prevent its projects from affecting the health of the environment.