Denmark announces first 'Energy Towns'

The Danish Minister for Climate and Energy Connie Hedegaard has announced that Copenhagen, Kolding and Skive have been selected as Denmark's first three Energy Towns. A total of 13 municipalities had submitted applications for gaining the title, writes national daily newspaper Jyllands-Posten.

In order to become an Energy Town, the municipality must be a model town in climate and energy. It has to be committed to making a strong effort in this area, which is well thought out and ambitious, both on a national and international scale.

Connie Hedegaard says: "The three municipalities have been chosen because they were the very best among a very qualified group of applicants. It is highly encouraging to see the effort the municipalities are making. They are committed, achieve results and have ambitious plans. The applicant municipalities are in many ways front-runners, and I am convinced that their work can become a visible source of inspiration for other municipalities and towns, also outside the country's borders."

The Energy Town title is good branding for Copenhagen, Kolding and Skive since they will all be especially
highlighted leading up to the all-important United Nations Climate Change Conference COP15 which will be held in Copenhagen in December 2009.

In spring 2009, the remaining municipalities in Denmark can apply for the Energy Town title again. Three more towns will then be selected.