Zero energy buildings for zero Energy neighbourhoods

European Commission (European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the European Territorial Cooperation goal of the EU Cohesion Policy for 2021-2027)

Project title: Zero energy buildings for zero Energy neighbourhoods

Agreement number: CE0100345

Project implementation period: 01.04.2023 r. - 31.03.2026 r.

Project value: 9 597 764,34 PLN (2 041 426,00 EUR)

National funds: 1 919 552,87 PLN (408 285,20 EUR)

Foreign funds: 7 678 211,47 PLN (1 633 140,80 EUR)

Principal Investigator: prof. dr hab. inż. Bogusław Szmygin

Abstract: The implementation of the ZEB4ZEN project includes strengthening innovation capacity, collaboration for greener and better connectivity, and improving collaborative governance in Central Europe. The overall goal of the project is to develop methodologies and define action plans to achieve zero-emission neighborhoods based on experiences from pilot activities and investments in well-known urban neighborhoods that are historically considered ideal star cities of the Renaissance era. This project brings together two opposing concepts: modernity and tradition. More specifically, this project identifies and uses solutions to modernize historic centers while protecting their historical heritage. Based on the exchange of experience and knowledge between the project partners and associate partners, the project will result in a coherent and clear methodology for identifying the potential of near-zero energy districts, which should be taken into account when creating energy action plans for individual districts. This can significantly contribute to energy planning, which will ultimately have a positive impact on climate change, i.e. reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving electricity neutrality. In addition to the potential for energy and carbon savings, built heritage requires ongoing care and maintenance to maintain functionality and avoid devastation. Given that the topic is relatively new and unexplored, national cooperation and exchange of knowledge and experience are important for good project implementation. In addition, there is no clear-cut approach to solving problems, and multiculturalism (different buildings, user behavior, level of development, energy poverty) and energy consumption, respectively, may lead to unique methods or at least grouping of methods according to specific criteria, such as national development.