Sustainable energies in everyday life - good practices in settlements- Hungary, Morahalom, 28 May 2025
- Tessy Melidi
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
On 28 May 2025, the Hungarian National Association of Local Authorities (TÖOSZ) hosted a workshop today in Mórahalom, highlighting the city's exemplary initiatives in sustainable energy and urban development. The event, titled "Sustainable Energies in Everyday Life – Good Practices in Municipalities," began with a welcome speech by Mayor Zoltán Nógrádi. It showcased Mórahalom's commitment to a greener future through various projects, with a strong emphasis on citizen engagement and community involvement.
Mórahalom, recognized as one of the most livable districts in 2022, is transforming into an "smart city" with a focus on digitalization, technological innovation, and a "green city" approach utilizing renewable energy sources and air quality sensors. The city's strategic vision, presented by Anikó Szűcs, lead project manager of the Mórahalom City Municipality, includes leveraging its geographical advantages and involving external experts to implement modern techniques, some for the first time in Hungary.
A cornerstone of Mórahalom's sustainable development is its advanced thermal heating system, powered by Siemens technology. Maróti Tamás, automation director at Hírös Mester Kft., detailed how this system heats the entire city through a 20 km optical network and a redundant SCADA system, ensuring efficient operation and continuous renewal.
The success of these initiatives is deeply rooted in community participation. Eszter Pancza-Kovács, project manager at Móra-Tourist Nonprofit Kft., highlighted how "everyone is a player in sustainable tourism”, and how the local government and the community work in close partnership. This includes promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency, modernizing waste management, developing public green spaces, supporting local producers, and preserving natural and cultural heritage.
The city also actively seeks public input on future sustainability steps. This collaborative approach ensures that residents and visitors are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to Mórahalom's sustainable journey.
Somlai Tamás, managing director of Somlai Bau Kft., shared practical insights on the implementation of these projects, emphasizing the importance of understanding local conditions, meticulous planning, and addressing operational challenges in the construction of geothermal wells, gas engines, and thermal pipelines.
Mórahalom's projects, such as the successfully completed "Decarbonized Mórahalom" and the ongoing "Spring Mórahalom" geothermal development, serve as a testament to how local governments can drive energy transition and contribute to a sustainable future with the support of EU funding. These initiatives not only enhance the city's environmental performance but also create a vibrant, engaged community dedicated to long-term sustainability.
The workshop concluded with a site visit to the Dekarb production well and the spa's heating centers.
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