ECEE Climate Positivity

Starting point / motivation

Climate change, tightening regulations, and rising energy costs present significant challenges for the construction and energy sectors. In industrial hall construction in particular, conflicts exist between climate control, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Traditional solutions are often isolated and not scalable. The "ECEE Climate Positivity" project addresses these challenges by aiming to design a novel climate-positive commercial building that offers a holistic solution.

Contents and goals

The project aims to develop a scalable, economically viable, and resilient energy concept for climate-positive commercial buildings. Core elements include extensive use of photovoltaic surfaces (roofs, façades, and complementary structures), innovative component activation for efficient climate control, and smart storage and control systems.

Additionally, new business models for energy usage will be explored, alongside comprehensive life cycle assessments (LCA) and economic viability studies. Social sustainability is also considered, including gender-sensitive workplace design and the promotion of women in technical fields.

Methods

Over the course of a one-year exploratory phase, an interdisciplinary approach will be pursued. Universities of applied sciences will contribute expertise in simulation, construction, and energy management, while ECEE GmbH leads the project and ensures applicability.

Key work packages include the development of modular façades with integrated BIPV, a new energy concept (simulated using the Carnot toolbox), cost-benefit analyses, and amortisation calculations. Gender-sensitive design and continuous knowledge management are integrated into the project via a shared digital platform.

Expected results

The project will result in a comprehensive concept for a climate-positive demonstration building, serving as a showcase for both new builds and renovations. Deliverables include technical designs, environmental and economic evaluations, optimised PV and storage solutions, and policy recommendations.

The project aims to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 50% compared to standard buildings, achieve economic payback within 10 years, and ensure broad scalability. It aspires to make a strong contribution to climate neutrality in the building sector.

Project management

ECEE GmbH, Dr. Bernhard Weilharter

Project or cooperation partners

• FH OÖ, Campus Wels, Center of Excellence Energie DI Dr. Gerald Steinmaurer
• FH Kuchl, DI Monika Tropper, Fachbereichsleitung Timber Construction und
• DI Dr. Markus Leeb, Forschungszentrumsleitung

Strass ECEE GmbH
Strass 23
A-5301 Eugendorf
Tel.: +43 (664) 532 55 44
E-mail: b.weilharter@ecee.at
Web: www.ecee.at