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For the third time, the RhönEnergie Group is offering the sustainability prize for committed projects in the region – and has now visited last year's prize winner.
Alsfeld/Fulda – In 2025, the forest group of the Albert Schweitzer School in Alsfeld with its project “Creation of a Species Conservation House” won first place and thus the prize money of 5,000 euros. The money was invested immediately, writes RhönEnergie in a statement.
In the middle of the forest, surrounded by birdsong and old trees, today stands the species protection house between Eifa and Alsfeld – a former quarry house that the students saved from demolition with their idea. Since winning the sustainability award, the project has been significantly expanded.
School from Alsfeld uses sustainability award for bat quarter
“With the prize money we were able to further expand our species protection house and create new habitat for a wide variety of animal species. This would not have been possible without the support of RhönEnergie,” says Dr. Florian Meister, educational director of the Wald-AG. Among other things, the attic of the house was converted into a summer quarters for local bat species. Nesting opportunities for barn owls were also created.
A planned pond for native amphibian and reptile species is taking shape. The water also attracts insects – an important food source for bats. “The project shows what is possible when people work together,” says Tobias Behlen from HessenForst, forester and district manager in Alsfeld.
And also this year The RhönEnergie Group is offering the sustainability prize for the third time. Projects that promote sustainability, environmental and climate protection can be submitted. Applicants can include groups and clubs, daycare centers and schools, local clubs and associations as well as committed individuals. The only requirement: You must come from the RhönEnergie Group's network area.
The projects must have been completed in 2024 or 2025 or are currently ongoing. The application deadline is June 22nd. RhönEnergie is offering a total of 10,000 euros in prize money – 5,000 euros for first place, 3,000 euros for second place and 2,000 euros for third place. Applications are possible via the RhönEnergie homepage. An independent jury decides on the winners.
