Old silos, green future: Graz transforms energy use
Old silos, green future: Graz transforms energy use
In Graz, the EU project "Excess" is pursuing an innovative strategy to convert old buildings into sustainable energy producers. Under the motto "upgrade instead of demolition", the researchers of the Joanneum Research work in a project that shows how listed and historical structures in the modern world can be used sensibly. The aim is to increase energy production and revolutionize the energy concept of entire quarters.
The team under the direction of climate economist Andreas Türk has set itself the goal that buildings in various climate zones can produce more energy from renewable sources than they consume. Four demonstration buildings in Graz as well as in Belgium, Finland and Spain are used.
Graz flagship project
One of these projects is realized in the former feed silo on the daylight area in Puchstrasse in Graz. The building is upgraded by a special facade technology that was developed in cooperation with the AEE institute for sustainable technologies. The innovative facade consists of heating pipes, insulation elements and photovoltaic systems. This enables an energy-efficient heating and cooling solution.
The building currently receives an individual examination through economic calculations and forecasts for energy use. Türk reports that you are in the process of capturing the first data from two already equipped floors, which are then calculated to the complete structure. "We simulate energy generation until we can make real data accessible," he explains.
social innovation through technology
But not only the technology is part of this project. Another important aspect is the role of the community. The IT expert Thomas Schwarzl launched the "Objective Benefit Sharing" (OBS) app. This app brings together the residents of the Tagger area and promotes an exchange about the savings and use of energy.
"The app is a platform where users can communicate with each other and make their savings transparent," explains Schwarzl.
The project is supported by a strong partner: Christian Kossegg, owner of the Tagger area, ensures that the retrofitting of the silo also brings social advantages. He is convinced that the redesign of the area not only create new jobs, but also promote the community.
"I am not only concerned with the economy, but also about creating a space where people can meet," says Kossegg.
The current tests in Graz should show how efficiently the new technologies work in practice. The creation of a café on the ground floor of the silo, which can serve the users as a meeting point, is also being planned. The idea behind it: The users should be able to speak about their savings and their contribution to the community.
Overall, the project in Graz not only offers innovative ideas for energy generation, but also an example of how old buildings can be made sustainable and sustainable through clever concepts and community action. Further information on this topic is on www.meinbezirk.at to read.
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