Last Friday was the kick-off for our hands-on project "Solar Heroes". We are setting out to install our own solar system. We from the climate community want to document the challenges and successes along the way and inspire other Stuttgart residents to also install a photovoltaic system on their house, balcony or open space.

We are particularly pleased that the independent solar consultant Robert Hoening is supporting our "heroes" with help and advice. He was one of the first residents in Stuttgart's Botnang district to install a solar system on his roof in 2004 and, with the "Botnang solar offensive", has ensured that many other roofs there are now adorned with a PV system.

To kick things off, these "solar heroes" came together for their first online meeting on January 12, 2024:

Simon, was the technical director of the Esslingen Marionette Theater for around 30 years before he retired. He is a carpenter, designer and a big fan of model trains. His 70-year-old house poses a number of energy-related challenges, as a complete renovation would be very expensive. With the desire to use 15 percent alternative energy, Simon has the original but also challenging idea of an elevated solar system with 6-8 KW on a slope. His model train could run under the protection of the solar system.

Thomas from Degerloch, owner of a charming detached house built in 1937, has already taken the first steps towards an energy transformation. With a new roof and façade insulation, his house is ready for the next step: replacing the oil heating. Although his experiences with PV subsidies have been less than positive, Thomas is not discouraged. His house offers the perfect opportunity for differentiated advice and guidance. 2 large dormer windows and 2 chimneys are typical challenges when it comes to the roof. Thomas is also considering installing a photovoltaic system on the balcony to actively contribute to a sustainable energy supply.

Pierre, a tenant with green fingers, lives in a rented apartment with a garden and intends to install a so-called balcony solar power plant. His landlord has already given the green light for the project, which could transform not only Pierre's balcony but also other balconies in the building into a sustainable source of energy. With a deconstructable system, Pierre is keen to find both ecological and landlord-friendly solutions. He is also considering the possibility of a plug-in photovoltaic system on the garden shed and in the garden, while also raising the question of electricity storage. He is also interested in smart home technology and ideas for more biodiversity in the garden. He would like to work together with others on the craftsmanship, i.e. do a lot of the fixing and installation of the panels himself.

Juan Carlos' parents are thinking about integrating renewable energy into their semi-detached house. They are considering installing a photovoltaic system for solar power or a PVT system that converts solar energy into electricity and heat. The family are at the beginning of their sustainable journey and are looking for suitable options to make their contribution to the environment. Juan Carlos wants to support them because climate protection and the energy transition are very important to him.

There are also other "solar heroes" who were unable to attend the first meeting live. But that's no problem at all, because we document all the steps and challenges. Newcomers can join in at any time.

The first challenge

Our first challenge until the next meeting: Researching and collecting relevant data such as living/usable space, electricity consumption, roof area and orientation, etc. On this basis, a non-binding expression of interest for the solar offensives in Stuttgart can be created. This is then the subject of a quotation from specialist companies.

You are cordially invited to join us and benefit from our shared experience and Robert's expertise. Just send a short email to info@klima-community.de and you're in! Our next online meeting will take place on January 26, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.

By the way: The "Solar Heroes" team has grown after this first meeting. Read more about this in our second blog post about the campaign: https://www.klima-community.de/blog/artikel/solar-heroes-neue-mitstreiterinnen-fuer-unser-mitmach-projekt.html