Optimization in Existing Structures - Implementation Concept for Energy Optimization in the Existing District of Nofels in Feldkirch

Starting point/motivation

The project "Optimization in Existing Structures" focuses on the energy-efficient renovation of the existing quarter surrounding the Stadtgut Nofels in Feldkirch. This quarter consists of several buildings with diverse uses and various undeveloped plots. Among the buildings are a senior care facility, social housing, a fire station with integrated apartments, a greenhouse, an agricultural operation, and additional smaller auxiliary buildings.

The quarter features a small district heating network primarily powered by biomass in winter, while hot water for the senior care facility is generated using heating oil during summer. By optimizing building envelopes and heat supply systems, the potential of the energy supply can be better utilized. This project supports the climate goals of Feldkirch to achieve climate neutrality by 2040.

Content and Objectives

The project aims to improve the energy efficiency of the buildings within the quarter and increase the share of renewable energies. A key focus is eliminating the use of fossil fuels such as heating oil for summer hot water production.

Related measures include improving building envelopes, implementing photovoltaic and solar thermal systems, and integrating energy storage solutions. The potential of bidirectional charging systems for electric vehicles will also be examined.

Furthermore, the project explores opportunities for urban densification, climate change adaptation, and optimizing local energy infrastructure.

Methodological Approach

Through integrated neighbourhood planning that actively involves stakeholders such as city administration, energy suppliers, and residents/users, the project ensures significant benefits for all participants. Following a comprehensive status analysis, including assessments for solar utilization and densification potential, optimization measures will be evaluated for technical and financial feasibility.

This systemic approach goes beyond technical renovations and encompasses social and climate-related adaptations, such as creating a climate-adapted community square and implementing green building measures.

Expected results

The expected results include a reduction in energy demand by at least 30%, a complete transition to renewable energies, and increased self-sufficiency within the quarter through sustainable technologies.

Insights gained will be scaled to the city level and integrated into the climate neutrality roadmap, which has been completed in 2024. Additionally, findings on the transferability of developed solutions to other municipalities aim to enable similar optimizations elsewhere.

Another targeted success is enhancing the quality of life through climate-friendly public spaces and gender-equitable housing solutions.

Project management

Amt der Stadt Feldkirch, DI Christina Connert

Project or cooperation partners

Energieinstitut Vorarlberg

Amt der Stadt Feldkirch
Department Umwelt, Energie, Klimaschutz
Schmiedgasse 1-3
A-6800 Feldkirch
Tel.: +43 (5522) 304 1452
E-mail: christina.connert@feldkirch.at
Web: www.feldkirch.at/bauen-und-umwelt/energie-und-klima