Bavaria launches heat‑protection funding and groundwater levy

The Bavarian state government has introduced two new environmental measures. A refreshed municipal climate‑protection funding line will support cities and towns in projects that reduce the impact of heat waves, with more than €45 million already allocated to roughly 460 local initiatives that cut about 11 000 t of CO₂ annually. Environment Minister Thorsten Glauber highlighted the health risks of extreme heat and called for stronger protection for schools and day‑care facilities.

From 1 July 2026 a "Wasser‑cent" will be levied on groundwater extraction at €0.10 per cubic metre. The charge, expected to generate about €80 million a year, will be passed on to consumers – roughly €5 per household annually – while a 5 000 m³ annual exemption applies to utilities, farms and industry. Revenues are earmarked for water‑quality and sustainable irrigation projects. Both measures are aimed at safeguarding Bavaria’s resources and public health amid a warming climate.