Mönchengladbach: Transparency and Reform in Procurement Law – March 2026 in Focus

Reform of Procurement Law and New Energy Contracts

Mönchengladbach has been intensively dealing with the implementation of the new procurement regulations in recent weeks. The state-level reform of procurement law in North Rhine-Westphalia became effective on January 1, 2026. The city deliberately decided not to issue its own procurement ordinance, instead opting for a revision of the existing official instructions. The goal is to provide clear, legally secure, and practical guidelines for employees. The effects of these new regulations will be evaluated by the end of 2026 to derive recommendations for the future.

Energy Supply Contracts and Procurement Strategies

Another central topic was the European-wide tendering of framework contracts for electricity and gas supplies starting in 2027. The city has defined evaluation criteria, which were adopted in March 2026 by the Committee for Operations and Procurement. The aim is to conclude economically optimized and legally sound contracts for the Mönchengladbach Property Management and Department 66 (Road Construction and Traffic Engineering).

In addition, the report focused on the cost development of energy consumption in municipal properties. Energy costs increased by 16% from 2023 to 2024, mainly due to price increases. Natural gas consumption remained stable, but costs rose by 53%, which is attributable to the transition from fixed-price contracts to market-based pricing. The city is working on measures to improve consumption transparency, such as remote reading of oil levels.

Procurement Strategies and Construction Projects

In March 2026, the procurement of nine emergency power supply units (NEA) was also an important agenda item. In addition, several construction projects were prepared, including the replacement of the bridge on Hangbuschweg and the construction of the cycling expressway in Rheindahlen-Nordpark. The city is relying on careful planning and European-wide tenders to ensure transparency and competitiveness.

Decisions were also made regarding the procurement of lighting cables, furniture for schools, and software developments in the CIVITAS system. The administration emphasized that the current procurement structure for heating oil is considered a transitional solution. The goal is a gradual reduction in the use of heating oil in line with climate policy objectives.

Outlook and Challenges

The reform of procurement law and the realignment of energy supply contracts show how Mönchengladbach responded to challenges in March 2026. The city is striving for greater transparency, efficiency, and climate protection. The results of the ongoing feasibility studies on sports and gym halls are also expected to enable political decisions that will be crucial for infrastructure development in the coming years.