Solar power after the EEG subsidy, biodiversity in the city and the fascinating world of octopuses are on the agenda
The BUND Darmstadt invites you to three free lecture events at the Center for Urban Nature at the end of October and beginning of November. Topics range from the continued use of older photovoltaic systems and the protection of biodiversity in the city to new scientific findings on octopuses and squid.
All three events will take place at the BUND Center for Urban Nature at Klappacher Straße 27 and will also be streamed online. Interested parties can therefore participate from home.
What to do if the solar power system no longer receives EEG subsidies?
The event kicks off on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 7 p.m. with the lecture “My solar system is no longer eligible for EEG subsidies – what needs to be done?”.
Many photovoltaic systems installed around 20 years ago are reaching the end of their original subsidies under the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). For systems installed in 2006, the current entitlement to compensation ends on December 31, 2026.
This raises the question for operators of how they can continue to operate their solar power plants in an economically viable way even after the subsidies have expired.
The presentation, organized by BUND in cooperation with the initiative heiner*solarberatung, provides information on the various options for the continued operation of older photovoltaic systems. It focuses in particular on the use of the generated electricity and the economic prospects after the end of the current feed-in tariff.
Biodiversity begins on the balcony and in front of the house
On Wednesday, October 28th, at 6:30 pm, the volunteer BUND urban nature guides will introduce themselves. The presentation is entitled "Creating and maintaining islands of biodiversity".
The focus is on the question of how something can be done for biodiversity in Darmstadt, even on small areas.
Whether it's a windowsill, balcony, tree disc or garden: even a few square meters can create habitats and food sources for insects, birds and other animals.
The urban nature guides explain, using short examples, which measures are useful and how citizens can become active themselves.
Even people without their own garden or balcony can participate. The city's wildflower meadow sponsorship program, which allows public spaces to be ecologically enhanced, will therefore be presented.
Following the presentations, the volunteer experts will be available to answer questions.
Octopuses and squid: Fascinating inhabitants of the oceans
The third lecture, on Tuesday, November 3rd, at 6:30 p.m., takes us into the underwater world. Under the title "Octopuses and Squid – From Sea Monster to Endearing Creature with Three Hearts," marine biologist and science journalist Bettina Wurche will discuss the astonishing abilities of these cephalopods.
Octopuses and squid have developed numerous adaptations throughout their evolution, enabling them to colonize almost all ocean habitats – from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea.
Some species are now considered particularly intelligent and exhibit complex behaviors that were long attributed primarily to vertebrates.
Bettina Wurche presents current research findings and explains how the animals communicate with each other, camouflage themselves through color changes, and react to their environment.
This also includes extraordinary species such as the giant squid, the so-called deep-sea vampire squid, and the Dumbo octopus. Another focus is on the reproductive and brood care behavior of marine animals.
All lectures also available online
The three events are free of charge and will take place at the BUND Center for Urban Nature. Access is via the driveway to the Orangery, first gate on the left.
Those who cannot attend in person have the option of following the lectures online.
The most important information
- Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 7 p.m.: "My solar system is no longer eligible for EEG subsidies – what should I do?" – in cooperation with heiner*solarberatung
- Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 6:30 p.m.: "The BUND Urban Nature Guides introduce themselves – creating and maintaining islands of biodiversity"
- Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 6:30 p.m.: “Octopuses and Squid – From Sea Monster to Sympathetic Creature with Three Hearts” with Bettina Wurche
- Venue: BUND Center for Urban Nature, Klappacher Straße 27, 64285 Darmstadt
- Access: Orangerie entrance, first gate on the left
- Admission: Free
- Online participation: www.bund-darmstadt.de/webkonferenz
(DARMSTADT – RED/BUND)
