structural development

The first solar flower in the Görlitz district blooms in Weißkeißel

In spring 2023, the community of Weißkeißel, with the support of Tafo, applied for the modernization of an old storage barn at the construction yard and its outdoor area as part of the Vitale Dorfkerne funding program.

Among other things, a space for resource synergies between local associations should be created. In addition, the children of the local daycare center “Feuerwehr Felicitas” and the village community are given a hands-on experience with new and sustainable technologies. In concrete terms, this means that a solar flower can now be found on the project site in the town center - something that has never been seen in the region before.

What exactly is a solar flower?

A solar flower, often referred to as a "smartflower", is a solar system in the shape of a large, stylized flower. The "petals" consist of solar panels that automatically align with the sun to absorb as much solar energy as possible throughout the day.

It works like a sunflower field: in the morning it opens and follows the position of the sun, and in the evening it folds up again. Solar flowers are space-saving, efficient and often an eye-catcher in gardens, parks or company premises. They are particularly suitable for private households or small companies that want to generate sustainable electricity.

The daycare center also has a snack garden on the premises where the children can grow and then process their own vegetables in raised beds and using vertical gardening. During the planning phase, the children at the daycare center contributed to the process by drawing their own pictures to clarify their ideas. The project is also intended to provide a meeting place for the village youth and increase the effectiveness, efficiency and safety of the construction yard. The ceremonial inauguration will take place in spring 2025.

Weißkeißel is on the strategic path of village development towards a community “suitable for grandchildren” and is also relying on inter-communal cooperation. The northern municipalities of the Görlitz district, including Weißkeißel, are currently developing a joint strategy to deal with structural change. They are also supported by Tafo.