On July 16, 2026, Pirmasens Mayor Michael Maas presented the city of Pirmasens’ sustainable projects for the future at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). The presentation focused on climate adaptation strategies and the expansion of regional energy self-sufficiency. The important role of the Pirmasens Testing and Research Institute (PFI) as a research and innovation partner was also highlighted.
Speaking before representatives of the international community, Maas presented the city’s measures for addressing the impacts of climate change, such as heavy rainfall and heat waves. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of a secure, affordable, and climate-neutral energy supply for the future of municipalities and businesses.
A key element of this strategy is the Winzeln Energy Park. Here, the PFI develops and tests innovative technologies for biogas, biological methanation, and the utilization of regional material flows. A planned electrolyzer is intended to convert surplus renewable electricity into green hydrogen in the future, thereby creating new opportunities for energy storage.
“The PFI contributes research and technological expertise. In this way, Pirmasens, together with the testing and research institute, is becoming a municipal driver of innovation and demonstrating that the global energy transition begins at the local level,” Michael Maas explained in his speech before the United Nations.
“We are very pleased that the projects from the Winzeln Energy Park were presented at the United Nations. It shows that innovative solutions for a sustainable energy supply are emerging not only in major cities, but also right here in our region. Together with the city of Pirmasens, we are developing concepts that combine climate protection, security of supply, and regional economic growth,” said Institute Director Prof. Dr. – Ing. Günter Schell.
Benjamin Pacan, head of the Research Facilities Department at PFI and responsible for the Winzeln Energy Park, adds: “Sustainability and security of supply are among the major challenges of our time. Together with our partners, we at PFI are developing solutions that are scientifically proven and, at the same time, practical to implement. The international attention focused on the activities in Pirmasens underscores the potential of regional innovation networks.”
Through its research, the PFI supports the development of practical solutions for sustainable energy supply and helps to integrate regional value creation, energy security, and climate protection. The international attention received at the HLPF underscores the importance of regional innovation projects for the implementation of global sustainability goals.
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