Solar Thermal Ordinances (STO) are legal provisions requiring the installation of solar thermal systems in buildings. The obligation is typically tied to the construction of new buildings or major renovation.

 

Many of the existing STOs are related to national or regional energy laws and implemented through the municipal building codes. A growing number of municipalities, regions and countries are already making use of solar thermal obligations. Already today, more than 150 million people in Europe are living in regions covered by a STO.

 

This thematic workshop aims at presenting the legislative framework conditions and the process for developing and implementing a STO at local level. It will also provide concrete examples from local authorities which have already set up solar thermal ordinances, including flanking measures (incentive schemes, information campaigns, etc.).

 

Project results and specific experiences from the organizations involved in the ProSTO project will be shared with the audience and this workshop will be used to find a common view point regarding STOs and to develop further ideas on how to promote best solar thermal ordinances at European and national level, the aim being to have even more local authorities setting up and implementing solar thermal ordinances.