Municipal Authority Stadtwerke Rastatt receives approximately EUR 1.44 million in financial backing from the government
In a significant move towards ensuring a safe supply of clean drinking water, Stadtwerke Rastatt has initiated the fourth and final construction phase of the Ottersdorf waterworks expansion project. The state government of Baden-Württemberg, through the Ministry for Environment, Climate and Energy Economy Baden-Württemberg, has provided a grant of approximately 1.44 million euros for this phase.
The expansion project involves several key components. A new workshop will be constructed, and the treatment technology will be expanded to include an activated carbon stage. Additionally, necessary supply lines will be built, and three new wells will be drilled.
The need for this expansion arises from the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the groundwater of the drinking water wells operated by Stadtwerke Rastatt back in 2013. The contamination in the Rastatt/Baden-Baden region, covering approximately 1100 hectares, is extensive, and a decrease in groundwater pollution is not foreseeable.
Environment Minister Thekla Walker has emphasised the importance of protecting citizens from the health risks posed by PFAS. She stated, "Citizens must be protected from the health risks posed by PFAS."
The total funding for the entire project amounts to approximately 3.21 million euros. The state's support in addressing this complex challenge is crucial, as highlighted by Sylvia M. Felder, President of the Government in Karlsruhe, who emphasised the importance of municipal support in such challenges.
Since 2022, Stadtwerke Rastatt has been implementing a comprehensive concept to expand the Wasserwerk Ottersdorf. All water suppliers in the region are required to address the challenges posed by the contamination of their raw water, due to regulations of the Trinkwasserverordnung that will apply from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the Ministry for Environment, Climate and Energy, their Press Office, or Citizen's Representative, please visit their respective websites. The contact details for both offices can be found on their websites.
In conclusion, the expansion of the Ottersdorf waterworks is a vital step towards ensuring a safe and clean drinking water supply for the citizens of Rastatt. The state's support and the efforts of Stadtwerke Rastatt are commendable in addressing the challenges posed by PFAS contamination.
