How EUCityCalc is helping this Czech town embrace sustainability

Žďár nad Sázavou is a charming Czech town located in the heart of the protected area of Zdarske Vrchy, within the beautiful region of Bohemian-Moravian Highland.

This town’s history is closely tied to the development of the Cistercian monastery during the 13th century. One of its notable landmarks is the Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shifting towards greener and more affordable solutions

While the impact of climate change on Žďár nad Sázavou is not yet severe, the town has witnessed rising temperatures during the past two decades and occasional droughts due to reduced rainfall. Its strategic position at the center of the Bohemia-Moravian region, approximately 550 meters above sea level, provides moderate winters and comfortable summers.

Žďár nad Sázavou has joined the EUCityCalc project to simulate low-carbon scenarios and assess emissions, with a particular focus on the heating system. The town’s main energy challenge lies in the high cost of electricity, which has doubled since 2021. Currently, coal serves as the primary heating source, resulting in significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The municipality is committed to replacing coal with cleaner alternatives such as natural gas or hydrogen in the near future.

Additionally, efforts are underway to promote sustainable mobility, aiming to replace 15% of cars with bicycles, especially during the summer season.

By leveraging the expertise provided by EUCityCalc, the municipality can predict and work towards reducing GHG emissions.

Stakeholders engagement

By participating in the EUCityCalc project, Žďár nad Sázavou aims to gain valuable expertise in EU-funded initiatives and foster knowledge sharing with other pilot cities. Stakeholders involved in the co-creation process include the Director of the municipal heating grid, City Council members, and the Director of the current coal-based heat source. Engagement of citizens interested in sustainable mobility, as well as input from schools and young people, ensures a comprehensive and inclusive approach.

EUCityCalc’s role in Žďár nad Sázavou’s GHG emission reduction efforts

The EUCityCalc project provides strong support for Žďár nad Sázavou’s commitment to reducing GHG emissions. By lowering energy consumption, emissions can be effectively decreased. The city’s 2021 SECAP (Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan) outlined recommended measures to achieve this goal. As part of their efforts, outdated electric appliances have been replaced, and plans for photovoltaic installations on municipal roofs are underway.

The webtool developed by the project will calculate the emission reduction achieved through concrete measures implemented by the city.