Churches in Trier will close down to save energy for the winter

Germany will have to aim for around 20% energy savings to avoid a gas shortage in the winter

Today, the Diocese of Trier, Germany, announced that it would have to close down churches during the winter to save energy. The Diocese spans the states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarbrücken, covering Germany’s oldest city – Trier, as well as Koblenz and Saarbrücken.

Furthermore, the Diocese of Trier seems to also be concerned with carbon emissions, as it is slowly beginning to adopt a shift towards more sustainable energy. In May 2022, Church authorities issued a one-year planning and construction moratorium on fossil fuel-based heating systems in its buildings.

Solidarity with Germany during the winter - Solidarity with Ukraine

According to the statement by church authorities, the measures are aimed at making a substantial contribution to Germany’s energy-saving budget. With the burgeoning energy crisis in Europe, officials have said that the EU-wide target of saving 15% would not be enough for the country.

This is because Germany has had a very significant dependence on Russian gas for decades. Thus, the Federal Government is aiming for a 20% reduction in energy use, to be able to avoid blackouts during the heating season.

Moreover, the authorities of the Diocese of Trier have also stated that they expect closing some churches during the winter would be met with understanding by the parish, as it would be reminiscent of last year’s Covid situation. Also, they have pointed out that the move means to show solidarity with Ukraine.

A cold winter for churches in Trier

The Dioceses of Trier manages a number of administrative buildings and kindergartens apart from the churches. There, according to the energy-savings measures, authorities will keep average temperatures around 19 degrees, to ensure the comfort of workers, children and visitors.

Additionally, whenever possible, staff will be sent to work from home, to conserve as much energy as possible.

However, when it comes to churches, they plan to leave open only two temples per parish. The remaining temples will be heated to around 11 degrees to keep the insides from forming frost and mould.