The library in the village of Tiszakürt has undergone a remarkable transformation. As part of a major development project, the building’s energy systems were modernized, the entire roof structure was replaced, and full accessibility was introduced. The project was supported by the European Union under the Széchenyi Plan Plus program.
The European Green Deal—Europe’s key climate and energy strategy—focuses on increasing energy efficiency, promoting the use of renewable energy, and reducing carbon emissions. Hungary has committed to cutting its emissions by at least 50% by 2030. The role of electricity in overall energy use is expected to grow, with the aim of replacing fossil fuels with low-emission renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and hydropower.
In line with these goals, the outdated, energy-wasting systems in the library were replaced with modern, eco-friendly technologies. The building now operates entirely without gas: hot water is supplied using electricity, and the old gas heaters have been removed. In their place, a new air-to-water heat pump system provides efficient central heating.
| Heat pumps are an effective solution for both heating and cooling. They draw energy from external sources like air or soil, requiring much less energy than traditional systems. In heating mode, they extract heat from the environment and transfer it indoors using air or water as the medium. |
Energy efficiency has been further improved with the installation of 18 rooftop solar panels, which now generate a large portion of the building’s electricity needs. These panels provide clean, renewable energy on-site, significantly reducing both operational costs and the library’s carbon footprint.
The modernization also included a complete overhaul of the roof. The old, worn-out slate was replaced with modern tiles and metal elements, improving both the safety and durability of the structure, as well as its appearance.
Accessibility was a key focus of the project. A new barrier-free ramp and parking space were built in the courtyard, and the interior now includes a fully accessible restroom for people with mobility impairments.
This project goes well beyond a simple building renovation. It enhances the quality of local public services and supports long-term sustainability for the community. It also aligns with the development goals of Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok County and helps Tiszakürt move closer to becoming a model modern rural town.
With support from the TOP Plus program, Hungary is making steady progress toward meeting the EU’s environmental and energy goals, building a greener, more livable future for all.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project TOP_PLUSZ-2.1.1-21-JN1-2022-00028 under the Territorial and Settlement Development Operational Program Plus.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder: Details
