Munich. The city plans to become more climate friendly and will reward energy saving citizens with cash. The support programme "Energy savings" which was founded over 20 years ago is now to be expanded.

The budget up to now has been 10 million Euro, but will be increased to 14 million Euro. The goal is to arrange buildings and flats to be energy friendly.

New buildings or redevelopment measures are eligible for aid support. Generally aid between 300 and 50,000 Euro can be obtained. In some cases landowners are entitled to aid of up to 1 million Euro. The requirements are that residential areas consist of at least 100 flats. Refurbishment has to be to the standard of Munich's "low energy demand". 300 Euro are permitted for improvements such as increasing the efficiency of a heating system in a one family house. Flat owners can benefit from the programme as well and gain benefits between 100 and 5,000 Euro. In every case however, Munich's list of criteria has to be obeyed. To any potential building in question the Bauzentrum München offers a free 30 minute consultation. Appointments are available by ringing 089/50 50 85.