Development and demonstration of a scalable zero emission building for the realisation of climate-neutral cities

The ZEBdemo project develops climate-neutral solutions for buildings that are characterised by high building quality with reduced resource consumption and minimised_{CO2-equivalent}(CO2-eq) emissions over the entire life cycle. As the production of building materials with high thermal insulation standards is associated with significant emissions during the construction phase, ZEBdemo focuses on low-emission alternatives such as clay bricks, straw insulation, hygrothermal clay ceilings and water-permeable coverings. These materials replace _{CO₂-eq-intensive} building materials such as reinforced concrete and promote the circular economy and regional value creation.

Building emission management is used to reduce emissions during the utilisation phase. This adapts the heat pump output to low-emission periods, for example when there is a high proportion of wind or solar energy. The thermal inertia of the building allows loads to be shifted and renewable energies to be utilised. In addition, panel heating systems, shading, photovoltaic systems and storage are integrated, with data-based, predictive methods (data-driven predictive control approach) ensuring thermal comfort.

A long-term test in a demonstration building is investigating the effects on hygrothermal comfort, summer overheating and _CO₂-eq savings potential. The findings show the transferability to multi-storey residential buildings and the scalability for climate-neutral cities.