The CommONEnergy project aimed to transform shopping malls from high-energy consumerist hubs into efficient, sustainable buildings. It focused on deep retrofitting of existing malls and repurposed structures using holistic systemic approaches.
Project Goals
The initiative targeted up to 75% energy demand reduction, peak power shaving, 50% more renewable energy integration, and better indoor environmental quality. It emphasized life-cycle assessments, integrated design tools, and economic evaluations for long-term impact.
Key Methods
Demonstrations occurred in three sites across Italy, Norway, and Spain, testing solutions like advanced facades, CO2 heat pumps, intelligent Building Energy Management Systems (iBEMS), and efficient lighting. These addressed major energy drains: lighting, HVAC, refrigeration, and architecture.
Outcomes
The project, coordinated by EURAC Research from 2013-2017 with a 13.9M€ budget and 24 partners, proved retrofits could cut primary energy use while enhancing comfort and sustainability. It highlighted drivers like envelope optimization and micro-grids for broader EU adoption.
