Energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood
Design of an energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood based on a geothermal energy management system
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Introduction
The project serves as a model for future urban development, as it demonstrates how neighborhoods can be designed to be energy self-sufficient through the integration of modern technologies and sustainable energy concepts. It provides a blueprint for similar projects in other cities and regions by testing innovative solutions for energy supply in urban areas.
The project also includes the development of a digital twin. This is intended to evaluate various approaches and also serve as a tool for disseminating information. The digital twin can be viewed on the Wohnen in Dresden (WiD) website: www.wid-dresden.de
The aim
The aim of the project is to develop a neighborhood that paves the way toward energy self-sufficiency. This means that the neighborhood’s energy needs will be met largely by local, renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to sustainable urban development. The measures aim to supply the neighborhood with renewable energy sources as much as possible and thus help reduce CO₂ emissions.
Smart Energy and Environment
Focus
in progress
Project status
2023–2026
Duration
Pillnitz
Place of use
1,2 Mio. Euro
Project budget
An Energy-Self-Sufficient Residential Estate
Key Information
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How does the energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood benefit the environment?
The increased use of renewable energy sources such as solar and geothermal energy significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, which helps to combat climate change. Furthermore, lower energy consumption – and consequently lower resource consumption – means less environmental impact.
How does the energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood improve everyday life?
The digital neighborhood model gives residents the opportunity to explore the interplay between the design of energy systems, user behavior, and the resulting energy costs.
What new opportunities are there?
Using a geothermal heat pump allows buildings to be cooled in the summer by harnessing the ground's temperature.
How can I get involved or benefit?
Sharing locally generated energy strengthens the sense of community. Residents identify more strongly with their neighborhood and actively contribute to sustainability.
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AdobeStock l Robert PoortenEnergy efficiency comes first
The “Energy-Self-Sufficient Residential Neighborhood” project includes several measures designed to improve energy efficiency. The planned renovation of existing buildings is intended to minimize energy consumption in the neighborhood and make more efficient use of existing energy sources. The long-term plan for the neighborhood also includes the integration of new buildings that meet high energy standards, such as passive houses or energy-plus houses, which generate more energy than they consume.
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AdobeStock l Daniel ErnstUse of renewable energy
The installation of solar panels on roofs and other suitable surfaces within the neighbourhood is one of the key measures for generating electricity from renewable sources. These systems are intended to meet a significant proportion of the energy demand. In addition, geothermal systems are intended to contribute to energy generation. To harness geothermal energy, deep boreholes with an integrated heat exchange system – known as geothermal probes – are planned.
An Energy-Self-Sufficient Residential Estate
Benefits for the Economy
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How does the energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood help businesses in Dresden?
The pilot project serves as a testing ground for digital solutions to urban challenges such as climate change, mobility and energy supply.
What technologies are available?
Companies can benefit from collaborating with research institutions such as the Technical University of Dresden, which, for example, is involved with the Institute of Building Climate Control in the development of a digital twin for the energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood. This technology can help companies optimise their energy and heating supply and save costs.
How can businesses benefit from this funding scheme?
Putting these findings into practice has a positive impact not only at local level. The results are also intended to serve as a model nationwide and encourage others to follow suit. This gives the project partners involved the opportunity to establish their solutions on a supra-regional basis.
What networking opportunities does the energy-self-sufficient residential neighbourhood offer?
Regional conferences and publications help to foster exchange between cities. For example, Smart-City- partnerships are being promoted to support local authorities and their partners in decision-making and the implementation of innovative solutions.
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AdobeStock l metamorworksAn opportunity for businesses in Dresden
Sharing these findings and applying the digital neighborhood model that has been developed enable companies to simulate their energy consumption.
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AdobeStock l mediahain.deUse of environmental heat
Geothermal systems are used to heat and cool the buildings. In summer, they transfer heat from the buildings into the ground, and in winter they use the heat stored in this way to heat the buildings and provide hot water. The constant ground temperature enables the heat pumps to operate more efficiently.
An Energy-Self-Sufficient Residential Estate
Project Partners
WID – Living in Dresden
Our mission is to create and maintain affordable housing in the state capital, Dresden. In carrying out this task, we are fulfilling our social responsibility.
Our Smart
City team
