Even 8 thousand PLN for collecting rainwater. A new program is starting

March 22 is World Water Day. On a day like today, it is especially worth reminding about the benefits of collecting the so-called rainwater. It is a valuable, renewable source of water, the use of which is beneficial both for the environment and for our household budget, as it allows us to reduce water bills.

It is worth remembering that collected rainwater can be used, for example, to water the lawn, flush the toilet, wash the terrace or car. Unlike tap water, rainwater does not contain chlorine, and its slightly acidic reaction (PH 5-5-6) is beneficial for most plants.

Even 8 thousand PLN for collecting rainwater

The National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NGOŚiGW) encourages the collection of rainwater, which announced the launch of the “Microretention” program. It provides subsidies for installations that enable, among others: stop rainwater on the property, limit the effects of drought and prevent local flooding.

According to Bankier.pl, under the program you will be able to receive funding for the purchase, assembly, construction, expansion and commissioning of installations for:

• collecting rainwater or meltwater from impermeable surfaces, e.g. roofs, sidewalks, driveways,

• storing rainwater in tight tanks with a total capacity of min. 2 m3,

• retention of rainwater, including meltwater, in the ground, e.g. unsealing of surfaces, absorption wells, drainage, infiltration boxes, open tanks,

• use of retained rainwater or snowmelt water, e.g. pumps, sprinklers, water distribution centers.

The installations should ensure the collection of water from impervious surfaces and use the water in such a way that there is no need to discharge it outside the property, including into the storm sewage system (except in emergency situations). Moreover – as the fund emphasizes – the installations must be a permanent part of the system enabling the retention of rainwater or meltwater on the property or the use of stored water for household and natural conservation purposes, including irrigation of home gardens (excluding business and agricultural activities).

The subsidy for individuals will be 90%. eligible installation costs. Its maximum amount is PLN 8,000. Natural persons who are owners, co-owners or perpetual usufructuaries of real estate on which there is a building intended for residential purposes (permanently or temporarily) will be able to apply for funding.

The Fund notes that the program applies to already completed investments – the agreement with the grantee will also be the settlement of the investment. The subsidy will cover costs incurred from July 1, 2024. It will not be possible to obtain a subsidy for a project or elements of a project that was already financed from provincial funds or a national fund, e.g. from the “Moja Woda” program.

Recruitments for funding will be announced in the second quarter of this year. They will be carried out by the provincial funds for environmental protection and water management (WFOŚiGW).

The total budget of the program is PLN 173 million.