Water cent in hemlock: low costs, big impact for the future

Water cent in hemlock: low costs, big impact for the future

In Schierling, the introduction of a so-called “water cent” is currently being discussed, which could influence water fees. A 10-liter bucket of drinking water from the municipal line currently only costs around 1.6 cents, which has surprised many citizens. This discussion originated in a tavern, where the regulars' table discussed the cost and importance of water. The realization that water is so cheap amazed those present.

In Bavaria, water is a free mineral resource that is available for both industry and agriculture. The fees charged by municipal utilities only cover the costs of pumping and operating the water pipes. In most federal states, with the exception of Bavaria, Thuringia and Hesse, there is already a water cent, the revenue from which goes towards protecting water. In Schierling, the current consumption fee is around 1.60 euros per cubic meter of water. In comparison, the water cent in other federal states is up to 6 cents per 1000 liters.

The history of the water supply in Schierling

The water supply in Schierling has a long history. Over 110 years ago there was no consistently clean drinking water in the community. The citizens had their own wells, and the application for a central water supply was initially rejected. It was not until 1909, after realizing the benefits of running water, that the community voted to build a central water supply. Pastor Georg Hackl and brewery owner Anton Huber were significantly involved in this development.

The first water pipe, the “Brauereileitung”, was put into operation in 1840, but it only served the brewery and not the general water supply. Only when the technical possibilities for laying pipelines were available did the construction of a central water supply begin. The “Parish Water Pipe” was completed in 1905 after the district office ordered the closure of wells due to contamination.

Anton Huber's private water supply grew over the years, and in 1987 the market town of Schierling took over the water supply. A comprehensive renovation of the water supply system was decided to ensure the quality and availability of the water. Today, the water supply in Schierling is well established, and there are emergency connections to neighboring water associations to ensure supplies even in times of crisis.

An interesting aspect of the water supply history is the discovery in 1964 of an old well, which was found by chance during the expansion of the cemetery. This well, created about 100 years ago, was forgotten for a long time and was eventually safely closed to avoid possible dangers.

The discussion about the water cent and the history of the water supply in Schierling show how important the issue of water is for the community. It is not just a question of costs, but also of responsibility to protect and use the valuable resource water sustainably.