Holding Slovenske elektrarne (HSE) therefore pays special attention to cooperation with the local community, which they understand as one of the fundamental principles of their operation.
A project created in dialogue with the environment
In the area of the Šaleška Valley, which is entering a period of significant transformation, this approach manifests itself very concretely. The floating solar power plant project Družmirje (PSE Družmirje) is one of the key development steps of the green transition, and at the same time an example of how development can be created in cooperation with the local environment.
From the beginning, the project has been accompanied by an open dialogue – with regular meetings, accessible information points and the involvement of various stakeholders in the planning process. Such an approach makes it possible for projects to be as understandable as possible, issues to be dealt with in a timely manner, and development to be designed together with the people who live in this space.
An important milestone in this process was reached in March this year, when the HSE and the Municipality of Šoštanj signed a letter of intent and an agreement on compensation due to the restrictive effects of the state project. The documents are the framework of a long-term development partnership.
If the project is implemented, the Municipality of Šoštanj will be entitled to annual compensation for a period of 30 years, according to the agreement. According to the assurances of the representatives of the local community, these funds will be used for direct benefits for citizens, including the reduction of waste collection costs for households in the municipality.
The letter of intent envisages co-financing the development of the area by Lake Družmir, where new recreational and tourist facilities are planned – from walking and cycling paths to a well-kept beach, a pier with a boathouse and an observation tower. In addition, the possibilities of involving citizens in community self-supply with electricity are also being studied.
Such an approach shows that the project goes beyond just the energy aspect and is a development opportunity in which the local community plays an active role.
Investing in the community as part of a broader responsibility
Where energy is created, bonds are also created – with people, space and everyday life. In HSE, they understand their role more broadly: as a partner who, in addition to the energy future, also co-creates relationships, trust and the development of the local environment.
Social responsibility is therefore an integral part of their operations. It is realized not only through projects, but also through long-term support of the environment in which they operate. This includes support for sports, culture, education and various local initiatives that contribute to the quality of life and community development.
Sponsorships and donations are part of a broader approach to connecting and strengthening communities – both at the national level and in the local environments where the projects are developed. This type of operation is based on the belief that the development of energy is inextricably linked to the development of space and people. Therefore, projects are planned thoughtfully, taking into account environmental and spatial aspects and in dialogue with the environment.
Today, the Šaleška Valley is at an important turning point. The transition to a low-carbon future brings challenges, but also new opportunities. The key remains that this development is shaped collaboratively – in a way that strengthens the community and opens up space for the future.
More: https://www.hse.si/sl/pospesenovzeleno/pse-druzmirje/
The client of the advertising content is Holding Slovenske elektrarne.
