Stanz im Mürztal is located in a rural area in the province of Styria in Austria, in a side valley of the Mürztal. The province is industrial and has been affected by economic structural change in recent decades. As in many European regions, people tend to move into metropolitan areas, which is one reason for depopulation.
Community characteristics
The economy is small-scale, which is reflected in the high percentage of residents who commute outside the municipality for work. In the 2015 municipal elections, a citizens' list independent of any political party became the strongest group in the municipal council and has provided the mayor since then, as well as the deputy mayor since 2020. The people and their strong civic engagement can be considered one of the municipality’s greatest assets. Approximately 80% of the municipal area of Stanz is covered by forest, offering significant potential for sustainable energy production. Stanz is also embedded in a mountainous landscape, far away from mass tourism.
Community strengths and smartness
The village has been prioritising a green transition, primarily based on local renewable energy production. In addition to wind power, Stanz has significant potential in biomass from wood, hydropower, and suitable areas for generating solar energy. As part of the local energy community initiative, Stanz is experimenting with a local energy token system—functioning as a local currency—that allows inhabitants to sell and buy energy locally, supported by blockchain technology. Other technological innovations are also being explored, such as energy storage solutions (e.g., heat tanks).
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