SmallCAN can be used to considerably simplify the automated operation of buildings. In terms of its basic structure, the simple and flexibly extendable fieldbus system has its origins in the automotive sector and requires very little power itself.

The project is accompanying the first construction phase of an energy-plus housing scheme being constructed in Berlin Adlershof, whose clients have combined together to form the Newton GbR building venture. Three four-storey residential buildings are being built in this construction phase.

Solutions for the use of low-exergy systems are being developed for the heat supply of existing multi-family houses. The subject of investigation are electric and gas heat pumps as well as heat transfer and ventilation systems.

Development of a LowEx multi-line network capable of integrating different local energy sources (solar thermal, geothermal energy) at different temperature levels.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are only used sporadically in construction, although various products and systems have been available on the market for several years now. The PCM Demo II research project therefore intends to test and scientifically evaluate the practicality of PCMs in buildings.

The listed settlement Margarethenhöhe in Essen is a historic residential quarter. Many buildings have remained almost unchanged since the construction period. Researchers are now investigating how the energy efficiency of the settlement can be significantly increased beyond the measures taken so far

The energy balancing of buildings in accordance with DIN V 18599 has been frequently criticized because of its complexity and resulting time-consuming application. The Excel-based EnerCalC tool, which was developed in 2011 as a learning tool.

Foundation piles with absorber arrays extract heat from the ground in winter and serve as a cooling source in summer. Thermally activated concrete storage masses support pleasant room temperatures.

In this project, researchers want to find out how an increasing number of decentralised heat generators affect the network hydraulics and thermal cycling of existing district heating networks, and whether heat storage systems need to be retrofitted.

Phase change materials (PCMs) are of interest for many applications in constructions, as they can be used for cooling, heating, and storing heat. However, to date they have only been used in a limited number of offices and residential buildings. Researchers have studied the reasons for this.

Energy-saving contracting helps the new building provide zero-emission heating.

The Smart Green Tower is being built in the city of Freiburg. The 51 m high residential and commercial building will have a building envelope made of photovoltaic modules. Depending on the solar radiation, more energy is generated via the photovoltaic system than can be directly consumed.