Thuringia's New Program Funds Water Reuse for Struggling SMEs Amid Droughts

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Thuringia's New Program Funds Water Reuse for Struggling SMEs Amid Droughts

A river flows through a green field beside a building, with trees, plants, grass, stones, street poles, street lights, electric poles, electric cables, hills, and a clear blue sky, at the site of a proposed water treatment plant.
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Leverage Rainwater and Claim Subsidies - Thuringia's New Program Funds Water Reuse for Struggling SMEs Amid Droughts

Thuringia's Environmental Ministry has launched the GreenInvest Ress program to support small and medium-sized businesses in managing water shortages. The initiative offers funding for systems that treat and reuse rainwater or greywater. Minister Tilo Kummer is urging companies to apply as droughts become more frequent across the region.

The program covers up to 60% of investment costs for eligible projects. These include car washes switching to recycled water systems and industrial laundries installing wastewater treatment units. Businesses with fewer than 250 employees and annual revenues under €50 million can qualify.

Applications must be submitted through the Thuringian Development Bank's (Thüringer Aufbaubank) website. Before applying, companies can access free initial advice from the Thuringian Energy and GreenTech Agency (ThEGA). One firm, Lean Plastic Technologies GmbH in Ilmenau, has already secured funding under the scheme.

Minister Kummer highlighted the growing pressure on water supplies due to climate change. He stressed that reusing treated water could help businesses cut costs while reducing strain on local resources.

The GreenInvest Ress program aims to ease water shortages by promoting sustainable reuse systems. Eligible SMEs can now apply for funding and expert guidance. The initiative reflects broader efforts to adapt to Thuringia's changing climate conditions.