The Litomerice Experience in the Coal Transition

The Czech city of Litomerice serves as a vivid example of how local authorities, despite immense challenges, managed to implement a just transition through bold and creative solutions.

The city began its transformation journey with a legacy of half a millennium of coal mining. Its residents were entirely dependent on fossil fuels, and no state support programs were available to facilitate the transition. Furthermore, excessive bureaucratic hurdles significantly complicated the process of obtaining permits for implementing new technologies.

Adding to these difficulties, many residents, deeply rooted in mining traditions, viewed change, new technologies, and grant proposals with skepticism. This posed a considerable challenge to gaining community trust and support.

In response, the local authorities took three decisive steps that proved critical to their success.

First, the municipality presented an innovative and forward-thinking vision for energy transition, focusing on geothermal and solar solutions. To guide this transformation, they developed a strategic plan called GEOSOLAR— a comprehensive set of measures and projects that the city has been advancing for over 15 years.

Second, the local government demonstrated the feasibility of change through practical, tangible examples in public spaces. Solar panels were installed on schools, heat pump systems were introduced for swimming pools, and solar-powered charging stations were integrated into public benches. These visible changes showcased the benefits of innovation and encouraged public confidence.

Third, a key element of the transition was constant communication with the community. This included public debates, seminars, lectures, assemblies, and collaborations with media outlets. Residents were actively involved through grant competitions, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility. Energy savings were pooled into a fund, which was redistributed among participants and reinvested in the city’s further development.

As a result of these combined efforts, public support for the local government’s initiatives steadily grew. Step by step, more citizens embraced the city’s grant incentives, and the community of supporters for innovative solutions expanded.

Since 2000, Litomerice has been exploring geothermal energy opportunities. It is now the only city in the Czech Republic authorized to conduct special interventions in the Earth’s crust. Scientists have studied the potential of heating water in boreholes 5–6 kilometers deep, reaching temperatures of 150–180°C. This hot water will be used for heating and cogeneration of electricity, marking a significant step toward energy independence.

Today, Litomerice is considered a source of inspiration for other communities and a leader in innovation among municipalities. The attitude of its residents has shifted from “resistance to change” to a sense of pride in their city.