Zlín’s comprehensive approach to the energy transition

In 2023, EAZK collaborated with various organisations in the Zlín Region to replace an aging fleet of cars with electric vehicles (EVs). Simultaneously, a network of charging stations was established, which gets power from newly installed photovoltaic power plants located on the roofs of the institutions concerned.

The project involves a total of 42 organisations, including the Regional Office of the Zlín Region, 32 schools, two cultural institutions, and seven social services organisations. In the first phase, 58 electric cars were purchased, and 57 charging stations were developed, covering the entire Zlín Region. These new EVs will replace a fleet of petrol cars between 19 and 22 years old.

The role of EAZK consists mainly of the coordination of public procurement and cooperation with the subsidy provider, the Czech National Programme Environment (NPE). The total value of this public procurement is 57.45 million CZK (approx. €2.4 million), while the grant amounts to approximately 23.83 million CZK (approx. €1 million).

In parallel, EAZK is processing activities to apply for the construction of photovoltaic power plants on the roofs of the participating organisations. These power plants will be used for energy consumption within the buildings as well as a power source for charging stations. The application is being processed within the 11th call of the OP Environment Programme (OPE), drawing on EAZK’s extensive experience and data from energy management in the Zlín Region over the last 16 years.

Due to its synergy and wide coverage, the project resulted in various positive effects. Its innovativeness lies precisely in its comprehensive approach, as it aims to build an energy community using new photovoltaic power plants, in alignment with the recently approved legislation on energy communities in the Czech Republic.

Thanks to this project, citizens of the Zlín Region will be able to benefit from more comfortable and quality facilities related to social services, culture, and education. Beyond the indisputable economic benefits such as property renewal for public sector organisations from tailored programmes at the national level, there are also environmental benefits. This entire project significantly contributes to cleaner air in our cities and serves as an inspiring example to be followed by other public and private sector organisations.

This best practice is extracted from our publication ‘Sustainable Regions in Action‘. Discover more best practices here!