In ENVISION, several solutions have been developed to harness solar energy and heat from the entire surface of buildings; the walls, roofs and even the windows. These solutions make energy positive buildings possible; buildings that produce more energy and/or heat than they consume.
There are 60 billion m2 of unused facade area in the European Union. And an equally large amount of roof space is available, where solar energy generation can be further expanded. This provides opportunities. The ENVISION project focuses on a full renovation concept in which innovative solutions for obtaining heat and electricity from solar radiation are developed. The maximum is achieved in terms of yield, while retaining the aesthetics and function of the façade. Development within ENVISION took place in four phases:
- The development of aesthetic façade elements that absorb solar heat and PV solutions for installation in glass
- The development of a flexible, modular facade concept with a click-on mounting system
- The integration and interaction of the heat and energy extraction systems with existing networks and heat systems at both building and network level
- A full-scale demonstration of ENVISION technologies in houses in Helmond and Eindhoven; office buildings in Enschede and Bischofshofen (Austria), linked to a heat network in Genova (Italy).
The practical demonstrations show how widely applicable ENVISION technologies are. From houses to flats to office buildings and in different climate scenarios. The innovations developed within ENVISION make the most of heat and energy generation, are cost competitive, easy to install and maintain and do not detract from the design of a building.
Energy-positive buildings are within reach thanks to the innovations and developments within the ENVISION project. Another step towards a sustainable future with renewable energy!
More information:
Project Coordinators:
Dr. ir. Bart Erich
E: bart.erich@tno.nl
Nicole Meulendijks B.Sc.
E: nicole.meulendijks@tno.nl
High Tech Campus, HTC 25 5656AE, Eindhoven
ENVISION H2020 Project
EUSEW2022 | Project using entire building surface to harvest energy
This project has recieved the European Union's Horizon 2020 innovation programme under Grant Agreement No 767180.