Promoting efforts to reduce CO2 emissions

Energy revolution in NRW? Yes! An important goal - and a great challenge for the state. The EU-goals form the center of priority axis 3: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and primary energy consumption by 20 percent each. This is an intermediate target that NRW has yet to reach. Our self-appointed objectives are even greater: Until 2020, all greenhouse gas emissions are to decrease by at least 25 percent. Until 2050, they are to decrease by at least 80 percent, compared to the emissions in 1990.

It is precisely the high percentage of energy-intensive industry and the large proportion of fossil fuels in the country which make it important to advance issues like renewable energy production, energy efficiency, energy conservation and energy distribution. 
In order to achieve this, the OP ERDF NRW focuses on several key strategic approaches: The development of innovative renewable power sources and low-carbon technologies; smart storage, distribution and control of energy; energy efficiency improvement, local concepts for climate change and cogeneration. Innovative pilot projects that set an example are the priority, along with measures to expand climate-friendly technologies and habits of use. Therefore, informing and consulting enterprises and consumers about climate protection constitute a crucial part in this context.

KlimaExpo.NRW intents to show the achievements possible in this regard:
The best and most successful examples for the implementation of climate protection measures in cities, agglomeration areas and enterprises are set to be presented to the general (national and international) public. 

About 291 million euros from ERDF funds are available for priority axis 3. This figure will be doubled through state funding and contributions by project participants.